To reap the many mental health benefits of yoga, you don’t need to be a Yoda. Yoga therapy can be a wonderful form of therapy, whether you are a beginner or an expert. Here are some ways yoga therapy can make you feel happier inside and outside.
What is yoga therapy?
Yoga is the perfect combination of exercise and meditation. You can exercise your mind and body simultaneously by combining meditation and exercise.
Exercising is an easy way to increase your serotonin levels. A 2011 study that was small suggests that this may help to ease depression symptoms.
Yoga and Meditation Programs can help you slow down and clear your mind. Research also suggests that meditation has mental health benefits.
Yoga therapy is a form of yoga that uses the same tools and techniques as other types. The only difference is that it focuses on the individual. This practice can address your individual physical, emotional, and mental problems.
Yoga therapy can be helpful with:
- Mind-body connection
- Overall well-being
- Physical pain
- Depression
- Anxiety
- stress
What makes it different from regular yoga practice?
Both traditional yoga and yoga therapy are very soothing and can be extremely beneficial. However, there are many differences between them. It all comes down to the individual results.
Traditional yoga instructors will concentrate on the principles and practices of yoga. These classes are geared towards a broad audience. Yoga therapy, however, focuses on your specific emotional and physical needs.
Before you begin a yoga session, a yoga therapist will evaluate your needs to optimize your experience. They will also discuss various healing tools such as:
- yoga postures
- Guided energy work
- meditation techniques
- Breath awareness and control
What are the benefits?
Stress reduction
Yoga therapy can help you get out of stress. Consistent practice can help you remain calm, focused, positive, and happy.
A 2012 study of 72 women who were “distressed”, showed that those who did yoga for three months, either once or twice per week, had greater improvement in their stress levels and quality of living than those who didn’t.
Anxiety relief
Yoga is a popular way to lower anxiety. It’s a good choice! Relaxing sensations, slow movements, and focused breathing can all help to lower anxiety levels.
Better eating habits
Both meditation and yoga promote mindfulness. Some research has shown that mindfulness may lead to healthier eating habits, as well as lifestyle improvements. Yoga is used to treat eating disorders. It can help you develop a better relationship with food and your body.
A better mood
It is 100 percent okay to have a bad day. It happens. Yoga therapy can help to nip these bad vibes in their tracks. Yoga therapy can help you get rid of endorphins and make you feel a lot better.
Is yoga therapy good for depression?
Depression can cause you to feel isolated and cut off. Remember that you are not the only one suffering from depression. Every year, 17.3 million Americans are affected by depression. Yoga could be a way to feel better, according to studies. Here’s how.
Depression can seriously affect your ability to focus and energy levels. Yoga may give you the energy boost you need to get back in business.
Is regular yoga possible as a form therapy?
Yes! Yes, yoga can be used for therapy. It’s not a panacea. Although yoga therapy may not be able to replace other treatments like medication or psychotherapy, it is definitely worth a try!
Takeaway: The pros and cons of yoga therapy
Yoga therapy can boost your physical and mental health. Let’s take a look at all the pros and cons of yoga therapy to help you decide if it is right for you.
Pros:
- helps you establish goals
- All fitness levels are welcome
- Can improve overall health
- Your mind and body will be healthier
- Can reduce stress and anxiety
- Depression symptoms can be eased by these products
Cons:
- Not the right fit for everyone
- It might be difficult on both a physical as well as an emotional level
- It can be expensive (but it all depends on the studio and therapist).