Blog Writing Sample - Yoga for Mental Health

Feeling overwhelmed in 2023? You're not alone. A recent survey found that twenty-one percent of Americans are struggling with mental illness, with a whopping fifty-five percent of that population unable to seek treatment due to costs, time constraints, or lack of access. Common self-treatment advice includes exercise and mindfulness meditation - and for the particularly time-crunched among us, yoga can help with both.

Originating in ancient India, yoga has lasted many, many years - over five thousand! - to become one of the most popular modern workouts. And with the benefits of yoga being so wide-ranging, its no wonder why! Here are five reasons to add a downward dog to your daily schedule:

1) Anyone can do it! When you think "yoga," the first thing that pops into your head might be headstands, or splits (or both at once - yikes!) - but don't be fooled! Yoga is great for people of all abilities, ages, and experience levels. The controlled flow of movements makes yoga one of the most joint-friendly workout options out there, and it's easy to adjust poses to your comfort level. Start with the types of movement you're able to do, and ramp up the difficulty as you gain experience. And hey, even the bendiest of fitness gurus was once a beginner. Who knows what kind of headstand-split shenanigans you'll be up to in a year or two?

2) Your wallet will thank you! No need to worry about blowing your paycheck on fancy classes or crazy equipment. If you're able, it may be smart to sign up for a beginner class, just to have an instructor check your form; but many studios offer discounts or even free trials for new members. As summer approaches, keep an eye out for flyers advertising free or low-cost outdoor sessions at your local college or community center. And of course, the never-ending supply of free videos and tutorials to follow online means you truly can start your yoga practice with nothing more than your body and a mat.

3) It's like taking a chill pill - but better! Medication can be a key part of treating mental health, but many people are nervous to start due to fear of side effects like weight gain or fatigue. A 2013 study comparing the potential of antidepressants and yoga for mental health found them both effective, with patients in the yoga-only group and the yoga-medication-combo group both showing greater improvements than those in the antidepressant-only group! While yoga shouldn't replace medication for everyone, it can't hurt to add it to your treatment plan - and it may even help to reduce some of those pesky side effects.

4) Find your tribe! In addition to exercise and meditation, socializing has been proven to help with mental health, and the popularity of yoga means there's no shortage of people for you to connect with. If you've started yoga to help with your mental health, you might be surprised by how many people in the community will relate to what you're going through. Classes - in person or on Zoom - can be a great way to meet people both locally and across the globe. If you prefer to stay in, grab a friend or family member and turn your living room into our own private class!

5) It's everything you want and more! Yoga is basically a moving meditation - focusing on your breath to ground yourself, while using your body weight as resistance to build physical stamina and control. Even a quick session a few times a week will help you to strengthen both your body and mind, allowing you to reap the benefits of exercise and mindfulness meditation at the same time. This can improve everything from mood and energy levels, to arthritis and cardiovascular health. Truly, the sky is the limit!

So the next time you're looking for some mental health relief, consider rolling out the mat. After all, it's hard to argue with five thousand years of success!