8 Yoga poses that improve your mental health

Amid the lockdown, people have seen a drastic change in their daily routines. Employment loss, along with financial hardship, has affected the working community. This condition causes increased aggression and post-traumatic stress. It impacts their ability to deal with life's ups and downs, deal with stress, maintain relationships, and make certain decisions.

Just like physical health, mental health is also necessary for overall well-being. Positive mental health enables people to deal with daily challenges, work efficiently, and contribute to their communities. It is vital to highlight that mental illness does not only define mental health; healthy psychological and emotional well-being also includes.

Yoga uses physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness to activate the body's relaxation response and lower stress hormone levels such as cortisol. Anxiety and depression symptoms can be reduced with regular practice. It encourages self-awareness and reflection. It helps people connect with their emotions, process them in a healthy way, and cultivate a greater sense of emotional balance and stability.

Yoga is a holistic practice that benefits mental health and depression. Here are eight excellent yoga asanas (poses) for improving mental health and reducing depression symptoms:

Balasana (Child's Pose)

Balasana is a deeply relaxing pose that activates the body's relaxation response. By gently folding and resting your forehead on the mat, you release tension from your neck, shoulders, and back.

Uttanasana (Forward Folding)

Forward folds can relieve stress and anxiety while calming the mind and improving blood circulation to the brain.

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)

Bridge Pose uplifts moods and combats sadness or depression. The pose activates the chest and heart area, which opens up and energizes the body, increasing positive emotions. This pose energizes the body, alleviates fatigue, and promotes well-being.  

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

The cobra pose helps to open the chest, improve breathing, and increase circulation. It reduces fatigue and uplifts the mood. This can improve lung capacity, enhance oxygenation, and promote freshness and clarity in the mind.

Ustrasana (Camel Pose)

The camel pose promotes a gentle opening of the chest, heart, and throat areas. This can cultivate self-acceptance, self-love, and compassion for oneself and others. Practicing Ustrasana can uplift your spirits, promote a positive outlook, and reduce stress.

Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby Pose)

Happy Baby Pose helps release tension and stress from the body, particularly in the hips, lower back, and groin area. It can promote joy and relaxation, making it beneficial for managing depressive symptoms.

Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose)

This restorative pose involves lying on the ground with your legs extended vertically up against a wall. It can reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and improve circulation.

Savasana (Corpse Pose)

This pose allows the body and mind to relax and rejuvenate completely. It can replenish energy levels, reduce fatigue, calm the nervous system, and promote mental clarity. The practice is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing burnout or exhaustion.