Volume 6 Issue 6 June 2016
Consultation Liaison Psychiatry Focus: ‘Yogic sciences’
In today’s fast paced lives, many have become the victim of this illness called – depression. Simply put depression is a state of severe despondency and dejection triggered by changes in the brain chemistry which results in a persistent state of hopelessness, pessimism, guilt, weakness and worst of all worthlessness. Depression commonly affects our thoughts, our emotions, our behaviors and our overall physical health. The pressing question is what is the cure? How can depression be removed from the grass root level?
Yoga’s integrated approach for curing depression has received much (belated) attention in the past decade. The practice of asanas helps in counteracting anxiety-driven depression because it reduces stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, inducing what’s known as the relaxation response. Furthermore it provides stability to the body, and with its continued practice your mind calms down. Chanting of mantras creates vibrations which help in harmonizing the brain chemicals. In addition to it, the practice of Shatkriyas (the yogic cleansing techniques) purifies the body from within by eliminating the various bodily toxins and induces positive energy. Pranayama expands vital energy (prana) and improves the lung capacity and brings about awareness which essential in curing depression.
Counseling based on yogic philosophy points out the reasons for sorrow namely- Avidya (Ignorance), Asmita (Ego), Raag (Attachment), Dwesh (Malice), Abhinivesh (Clinging to life) so that the depressed individual may successfully come out of it. Now- a- days more number of depressed people are increasingly attending yoga classes in yoga institutes and a positive effect in them is seen within a few days of practice. There are many studies that suggest the efficacy of yoga-based approaches for the treatment of depression, bipolar and anxiety disorders. Let’s spread more awareness and create knowledge base for wider application of yogic techniques in treatment mental disorder and building positive mental health.
Dr. Ambika Chandani, PhD Medical Sociology, Director
Ms. Pragya Lakhani, C.S., Administrator
Indira Yog Sansthan, Jodhpur
Email: ambika.chandani@gmail.com
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