Yoga for Depression

 This is an excerpt from the article: Yoga for Depression
http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/2011/01/04/yoga-for-depression/
While depression and other mental illnesses can be pushed under the rug and viewed as a failure, weakness, or dreaded fate, the symptoms of depression can also be viewed as an opportunity to probe – to journey through the ‘dark night of the soul’, so to speak.
Since the body has wisdom, depression is an opportunity to move through discomfort, confusion, agony, worry, and stagnation to literally open up new pathways – both physically and mentally. Mindful reflection, not always valued in this culture, has made ‘rescuing’ practices somewhat difficult or taboo. Now, thankfully, dialogs about depression include fewer stigmas, an understanding of the situation within the cultural context, and are yielding integrative treatment options. This is good news.
Depression can and should be treated holistically. Although antidepressant medications are popular, they can carry many unpleasant sides, be expensive, and may simply act as a band-aid. Using them in conjunction with other treatments such as bodymind yoga may be key. Then weaning off may be possible.
Of course, depressive energy, like happiness, can be contagious, so it is important to give it its due of exploration, respect, and treatment.  Practices using energy, elemental, Vedic doshas, positive psychology, therapeutic laugher, qigong, walking, and yoga – are great – this is where Yoga can instill hope.