Bikram Yoga and Depression

Have you seen the latest article regarding a study, published in The Harvard Gazette? 
"In the eight-week trial, 80 participants were randomized into two groups: one that received 90-minute sessions of Bikram yoga practiced in a 105°F room and a second group that was placed on a waitlist"-

Here is the link, I highly recommend giving it a read!   Afterwards, continue on here to read some of my thoughts on it!

Link to Article

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I am def no stranger to depression.  I began my yoga journey at a time in my life when I was lost.  Recently, I wrote about my yoga journey and it was published in a compilation with other yogis in a book called "Within" (it's available for sale at the studio). I didn't mention I was depressed in the book, but there were def some indications, at the time, that there was some underlying hints of depression, especially looking back. 

Postpartum depression hit me hard, and going through menopause, with the decreased levels of estrogen I have felt hints once again, going up and down, in and out of it.  A couple of hard life changes brought about other bouts of depression as well.  

The thing that was consistent through all this for me was my yoga practice.  My yoga allowed me to be aware of it, but not BE it.  I was able to not identify with it, I got to notice it, but detach from it.  I could look at it from a distance and know that it is only passing.  I knew that that is not WHO I am.  The reason, is because of my yoga practice.  Yoga is the study of the self.  Self Realization.  I know myself so well from my yoga practice, so much so, that I knew that the depression was not who I am.  Eventually, with consistent practice, the effects of depression would gently subside and even disappear.  

One of the things I love about this article is that it indicates you can practice only once a week and still receive the benefits!  WOW!  Imagine 2 or 3 times a week.  I feel my best with 4 or 5 times a week.  

I also love that it mentioned Bikram Yoga as the yoga the participants practiced.  I feel this is an important distinction to make.  

And last of course, I have to mention what you see in a Bikram Yoga Community...... smiling happy faces!!!  Even when I am having a rough day, or feeling down, as soon as I walk through the door and up the stairs, it completely shifts my attitude.  The greetings from the students, all the smiles, practicing together.......there is nothing better for me!!!  So grateful!  Bikram Yoga is def my anti depressant!!!

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