what is yoga

Yoga translates as union or connection, originating from India and has quite an in-depth explanation more than simply how the west has adopted it as forms and breathing techniques. In the west, it has been adapted into an exercise routine that strengthens balance and core muscles whilst also bringing a sense of peace and tranquillity but this is only a small fraction of what Yoga actually is. On this page, we will try to explain to you what it is, how it can benefit you if you are suffering stress, anxiety or depression and also attempt to answer the questions you may have before seeking a teacher.


What is Yoga?

Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing.

NHS

As the video explains, it comes in 5 forms and Hatha is the one the west tends to know best. The form of Yoga that western practitioners demonstrate is an ancient form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility, and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. The main components of theta yoga are postures which are a series of movements designed to increase strength and flexibility and breathing. The practice originated in India about 5,000 years ago and has been adopted in other countries in a variety of ways.

There are lots of scientific trials that yoga can be an effective way to increase physical activity, especially strength, flexibility, and balance, and also been proven to reduce depression and stress-related illnesses.


What to Expect

In the western hemisphere in a yoga session, you are going to be taught the Hatha element of Yoga (breathing and postures). This is an exercise usually undertook in groups in a leisure or community center and aims to relax both the body and mind and in tradition, it was believed to prepare a person to begin meditation, another form of practice that is highly beneficial to those suffering from depression anxiety and stress.

 


Can It Help Ease My Depression?

 

Classes can vary from gentle and accommodating to strenuous and challenging; the choice of style tends to be based on physical ability and personal preference. Hatha yoga, the most common type of yoga practised in the United States and the UK, combines three elements: physical poses, called asanas; controlled breathing practised in conjunction with asanas; and a short period of deep relaxation or meditation.

Available reviews of a wide range of yoga practices suggest they can reduce the impact of exaggerated stress responses and may be helpful for both anxiety and depression. In this respect, yoga functions like other self-soothing techniques, such as meditation, relaxation, exercise, or even socializing with friends.

By reducing perceived stress and anxiety, it appears to modulate stress response systems. This, in turn, decreases physiological arousal — for example, reducing the heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and easing respiration. There is also evidence that yoga practices help increase heart rate variability, an indicator of the body’s ability to respond to stress more flexible.

Health Harvard


How Much Does A  Session Cost?

Sessions can cost from £15/$20 to £50/$50 and occasionally more depending on the therapist’s experience, specialty, and location.

 


How Long Does It Take For Yoga To Take An Effect?

Some users of the yoga practice have reported changes in their mood and feeling within three weeks of undertaking the exercise for several sessions (although some may take more time) but doctors do tend to advise that Yoga should be used as part of other treatments as although it is highly beneficial, it really depends upon case to case and there is no definitive answer. All that can be suggested that Yoga is a beneficial tool to help aid relaxation, still, the mind, improve balance in both body and mind.


What If Yoga Doesn’t Work For Me?

First of all, don’t worry!

If you think it is the right therapy but you have the wrong therapist then you have every right to seek a second opinion and you will not offend your therapist, they just want you to heal from your difficulty as best you can and you deserve to feel better. If, on the other hand, you don’t feel Yoga is working at all then do not be disheartened, there are many, many different types of therapy to heal from depression and Yoga is only one practice. Use our therapy directory to find a different therapy, you may find hypnotherapy works better or possibly some counseling. The key is not to think this is your only option.


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Please note: This information should not replace professional medical advice, it is purely for informational purposes. At all times when you are in crisis please first seek help from your GP or another medical professional. Thank you