 |
Yoga for DepressionYoga and Meditation Practices for depression, anxiety, and stress
Practicing yoga for depression or anxiety relief is only one of the countless benefits gained by this ancient method of healing. Yoga, or "Yog" as it is traditionally called, means "Union with the Divine." It is a science of Self which dates back more than 5,000 years, orginating in India. There is no Eastern spiritual or religious practice that has not been directly or indirectly influenced by this path. True yoga is not a fitness routine, nor is it a religion. Yoga is a spiritual practice with the goal of awakening to one's true nature or cosmic consciousness, gradually attaining higher and more expanded states of absorption and at the most advanced stages - "samadhi." Even many of the most well known "authorities" and authors use Yogic terminology incorrectly, and confuse the stream with the ocean, so to speak. True authorities on the depth of this vast subject are very rare, (and I do not list myself among them). The following information is only an introduction into the art and application of Yoga for depression.
"Healing The Apparent Self
"Yoga is not tied to any religious system per se, but sometimes inevitably become colored with layers of cultural and religious attitudes, as well as powerful symbols of the areas from which they flourished and developed. However, the mark of a true spiritual path is that the core or essence does not depend on these extraneous layers and can be adapted to different cultures and times without losing their effectiveness."
Practitioners of traditional Yoga represent all walks of life. There are many types of Yoga, which makes it accessable and usable to all types of people, according to their nature. The best type of yoga for depression, depends partly on your preference and personality, and is not necessarily the same for everyone. Kriya YogaMy personal experience has been largely with Kriya Yoga. I am an authorized teacher of Kriya Yoga, and a student of Yogiraj Gurunath Siddhanath , an Indian Nath Yogi and born Siddha Master. Kriya Yoga is most widely known in the west through Paramahansa Yogananda and his best selling book "Autobiography of a Yogi."Kriya Yoga is closely related to Kundalini Yoga, Raja Yoga, and Tantric Yoga. It is a powerful system of meditation, utilizing concentration, visualization, mantra (inner sound), and devotion. Another important aspect of this meditation is the controlled use of the breath (pranayama) in order to generate a balanced flow of Life Energy (prana and apana) within the spinal column. Kriya Yoga generates intense energy, heightening awareness, sharpening perception, dissolving stress and anxiety, and is an excellent yoga for depression. It is a simple but powerful technique, dating back thousands of years, and is an unbroken lineage associated with countless historical figures of great spiritual stature. Kriya Yoga should only be practiced under the guidance of a trained teacher. Other Types of Yoga
Mindfulness MeditationA simpler meditation practice which can be done on your own, is Mindfulness meditation. This meditation is more passive, observing your inner experience -- your thoughts, body sensations, emotions, and sense impressions with non-judgemental awareness.Sometimes called "Insight Meditation," Mindfulness does not involve the intense concentration of Kriya Yoga. Mindfulness is excellent for psychological growth, cultivating compassion, self-acceptance, and emotional balance. Though it appears simple, Mindfulness practice can sometimes be emotional and difficult as parts of one's ego are examined and allowed to surface. Supressed emotions may arise, causing discomfort and aversion. These feelings too must then be tolerated with stillness and equanimity, until they dissolve like all phenomena eventually do.
For information on private meditation instruction and yoga for depression, anxiety, stress and personal growth: Call Ben Schwarcz at (707) 326-5566
|
