Support for Depression
In yogic terms depression is called the mudha mind. The dull mind, the heavy mind. Depending on how long the symptoms and severity of depression are will determine the pathway towards healing. The principles of yoga are fundamentally a map of the mind, allowing you to move past limiting thought patterns and belief systems. As well as utilizing tools like breathwork (pranayama), meditation, sound healing and specific movement to cultivate daily clarity, Yoga Philosophy plays an intricate role in the understanding of oneself and how to navigate life.
The holistic approach towards depression utilizes lifestyle changes and tools and strategies to maintain a stable positive mood. Discovering the root cause of suffering can assist in relieving a person of future episodes of depression and providing self-care strategies to enhance ones overall wellbeing. Mind-body practices, correct nutrition and lifestyle changes are part of the direction yoga therapists take, complementing any other therapies a person maybe undertaking e.g. Psychiatric care or counselling.
A past student had experienced severe depression for over 25 years. One simple practice brought her taste sensation back and within a few weeks she felt uplifted and more confident. True healing is not a quick fix, however, determination and a commitment to yourself can transform your mental health.
Depression is not something to “push through”. Ongoing sadness, grief, lack of energy, disconnection from oneself and others, fatigue, sleep disturbance and self-criticism can be debilitating. Not to be ignored or to feel shame, a person experiencing depression requires progressive steps with support, compassion and guidance to feel not just psychologically better but physiologically better too.