Depression Can Manifest in Your Posture, Here's How to Combat It

Image from: livingyogadenver.com

One of the physical manifestations of depression is a caved chest. This appears to be a way that the mind-body naturally attempts to protect the heart. Unfortunately, this pattern can often become habitual, leading to defensiveness and an inability to feel positive feelings. 

Use the following exercise to open the heart area.

Props are helpful. Before you begin, you may want to gather a yoga mat or blanket, a pillow, or a yoga bolster or rolled up towel.

Lie on the yoga mat or blanket.

Place the bolster or rolled towel under your upper back.

Place the pillow under your head.

Allow the arms to be heavy and fall to the side, palms up.

Bend the knees and place the feet on the floor to protect the lower back.

Breath slowly and gently.

Focus on relaxing the muscles of the body.

Place a soft grin on the face.

Hold the posture for 10 or 15 minutes. 

If you enjoyed this practice, register for our self-paced online Open Heart meditation course for additional practices.