This Mental Health Foundation has dubbed 13-19 May as Mental Health Awareness Week. Since 1949 the Foundation has committed itself to reducing the stigma of mental health problems, raising awareness of poor mental health, and supporting in the prevention and treatment of mental health conditions.
This year’s theme is “Movement: Moving more for our mental health”. We are thrilled to see this foundation at the Vanguard of mental health specifically focusing on how movement can improve psychological wellbeing. With more sedentary jobs, combined with the effect of covid, many of us have “moved” less and become more unwell. Of course this is not the only reason for increase mental health conditions, but it is a big one.
It is well-known that sedentariness markedly increases the risk for depression and that adequate levels of exercise (*described below) may improve mild to moderate depression more than medication.
Yoga asana for Mental Health
As yogis we know that movement is an inherent part of wellbeing. Asana is one of the 8-limbs and presently the most commonly practiced one in the West. When we practice postures, we become more flexible, stronger, improve balance, and also change our neurochemical environment for the better enhancing our mood. We increase GABA, something we often discuss at Minded, increase serotonin, and lower stress hormones.
As yoga postures are also often practiced with breathing practices that help to regulate the autonomic nervous system, and with mindful attention (known to change neurological functioning for the better), yoga is an excellent form of movement to improve mental health. Moreover, yoga postures can be adapted to any ability, any age, and any specific situation, so it can be done by EVERYONE.
So shout it from the hilltops this week, “Movement can improve mental health and yoga is movement and more”.
Additionally, remember there is still such a stigma around mental health problems even though they are incredibly common. Depending on the country and the study between around 15-25% of all people have or will have a mental health problem in their lifetime!
That’s a lot of people. Mental health problems worsen when we hide them. Shame has a profoundly negative impact on already poor mental health.
So, let’s release the stigma be honest about your own experience.
Heather Mason, The Minded Institute founder, publicly acknowledges even after all these years of yoga and mindfulness practice she still struggles with anxiety. Thankfully, these practices have lessened her experience.
So if you want to share your own struggles or mention how yoga has helped your mental health please share in the comments below.
*Guidance on Movement from The World Health Organization
“The World Health Organization 2020 guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour discourage sedentariness and recommend at least 150–300 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise per week, or at least 75–150 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise per week, or equivalent combinations thereof”
