YOGA & DEPRESSION
New Study finds Yoga Helps Alleviate Depression Symptoms in Pregnancy as well as Improving the Baby’s Wellbeing
Around 20% of pregnant women suffers from depression. There are many external triggers as well as internal hormal factors that contribute to the symptoms of depression. These may include:
- anxiety
- extreme irritability
- difficulty in concentration
- sleep problems
- fatigue
- poor or excessive appetite
- nothing feels fun or enjoyable any more
- persistent sadness
Yoga and Pregnancy Depression
Researchers from a University in the US looked into the benefits of yoga particularly on pregnant women. A number pregnant women who were at high risk of developing major depression went through a 10-week mindfulness yoga program. These sessions were focused on specific pre-natal asanas as well as information for the mothers to be about normal changes that take place during pregnancy.
After the pre-natal yoga program there was a significant reduction in depression symptoms, reduced stress and a stronger emotional attachment to their babies.
There are many studies have showing yoga and mindfulness meditation are beneficial to health and wellbeing.
Anxiety and depression among pregnant women not only affects their health but the babies as well. Studies such as these and now showing strong support for Yoga as an Alternative Treatment than medication for the symptoms of Depression
Research shows that many women are much more comfortable taking herbal medicine or complementary treatments such as counselling, yoga and meditation, and social support than taking antidepressants.
More Benefits of Yoga
Yoga classes can also help ease back pain, strengthen the abdominal muscles and pelvic floor therefore helping make childbirth as easy as possible.
Study: Mindfulness yoga during pregnancy for psychiatrically at-risk women: