Abstract

YOGA: AN ALTERNATIVE TO ALLEVIATE SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION

Shatakshi Lall* and Reenoo Jauhari

ABSTRACT

Yoga is an age old practice that has gradually developed into a holistic approach to general wellness and healing. Yoga is now recognized by researchers and clinicians as a complementary therapy. Yoga encompasses various components of healing that are now being singled out. Depression is one of the most common of the affective disorders; which range from a very mild condition, to severe (psychotic) depression accompanied by hallucinations and delusions. When the negative reactions to life`s situations become intense and frequent we develop symptoms of depression. Worldwide, depression is a major cause of disability and premature death. The purpose of this search is to conduct a review of the research that has been conducted on using yoga or yoga therapy to alleviate symptoms of depression. This review will focus on how yoga is being used to address symptoms of depression.

Keywords: Yoga, Depression, Hallucinations.