Yoga for Grief

Due to recent events, things seem a little dim. It is difficult to catch your breath with all of the resulting sadness and grief. With grief comes the need to release it. Some people turn to therapy, exercise, and unfortunately in unhealthy ways as well such as alcohol and drugs.

Research has shown that mind-body practices such as yoga and meditation can significantly reduce symptoms of various conditions to include depression, anxiety, fatigue, stress and grief. In fact, yoga may actually be a superior method when dealing with grief. In a study done by the University of Memphis, the effects of yoga versus group therapy for depression and grief were compared. The results? It was determined that yoga has superior long-term benefits when compared to group therapy.

So how does yoga help? First, let’s discuss how our body reacts to grief. Studies show that when you are happy, your brain’s pleasure centers are overloaded with feel-good neurochemicals (dopamine and oxytocin). However, when you experience loss, those chemical levels fall and stress hormones (adrenaline, cortisol, and epinephrine) rise resulting in anxiety and depression. The stress hormones launch your nervous system into fight-or-flight mode resulting in extra blood flow to your muscles, which can lead to tension and fatigue.  

Now, let’s talk about how yoga helps. Research shows that a physical practice, breathing techniques and meditation can improve your mood. In return, you are happier and calmer under pressure, and thus much more resilient. According to Harvard Medical School, yoga modulates stress response systems decreasing physiological arousal (reducing heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and easing respiration). This is the “calming” effect that an individual feels after a yoga practice. A consistent practice can prolong these effects.

Just fifteen minutes a day can make a difference. Why not give it a try?

Sources:

https://health.usnews.com/health-news/health-wellness/articles/2015/01/07/yoga-a-treatment-for-grief

https://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/healing-heartbreak-yoga-practice-get-grief

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/yoga-for-anxiety-and-depression