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Mental depression and kundalini yoga

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Journal name: Ancient Science of Life
Original article title: Mental depression and kundalini yoga
The ANSCI is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on Ayurveda and traditional medicines. It publishes original research, reviews, and literary studies linking traditional knowledge with modern science, covering disciplines like botany, ethnomedicine, pharmacology, and clinical research.
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Original source:

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Author:

Sanjenbam Kunjeshwori Devi, J. P. N. Chansauria, K.N. Udupa


Ancient Science of Life:

(A quarterly multi-disciplinary scientific research journal in Ayurveda)

Full text available for: Mental depression and kundalini yoga

Year: 1986

Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

The study conducted by Sanjenbam Kunjeshwori Devi, J.P.N. Chansauria, and K.N. Udupa explores the effects of Kundalini Yoga on patients suffering from mental depression. The research indicates that mental depression is often linked to hormonal abnormalities, primarily involving neurotransmitters like serotonin and catecholamines. Despite the effectiveness of antidepressant medications, which aid approximately two-thirds of those affected, there exists a need for non-medical therapeutic options, especially due to potential side effects of these drugs. The ancient practice of Kundalini Yoga is proposed as a viable alternative for promoting mental well-being and achieving emotional balance.

Hormonal Regulation and Kundalini Yoga

One significant concept explored in the study is the biochemical impact of Kundalini Yoga on neurotransmitter and hormone levels in depressive patients. The researchers observed increased levels of plasma serotonin, melatonin, and glutamate after three and six months of regular Kundalini Yoga practice, paired with decreased levels of cortisol and monoamine oxidase. These changes indicate an improvement in the neuroendocrine profile of the participants. In contrast, although patients taking imipramine also exhibited biochemical improvements, they did not show the same level of subjective enhancements in their well-being compared to those practicing Kundalini Yoga. This suggests that Kundalini Yoga not only modifies physiological markers but also fosters a greater sense of emotional and psychological health among depressive patients.

Conclusion

The findings from this research support the notion that Kundalini Yoga can serve as an effective non-medical intervention for managing mental depression. By restoring hormonal balance and promoting homeostasis within the body, Kundalini Yoga offers an approach that alleviates symptoms of depression without the unwanted side effects associated with pharmaceutical treatments. The study highlights the importance of exploring alternative therapies for mental health issues, advocating for a more holistic approach to psychological well-being. As evidenced by the improvements seen in subjective reports and physiological parameters, Kundalini Yoga may provide a lasting therapeutic benefit for individuals battling depression.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What biochemical changes occur in depression when practicing Kundalini Yoga?

Kundalini Yoga practice leads to increased plasma serotonin and melatonin levels, while lowering monoamine oxidase, cortisol, and urinary 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid levels, indicating a positive biochemical shift in depressive patients.

How does Kundalini Yoga affect sleep and social interactions in depressed patients?

After six months of Kundalini Yoga practice, 60% of patients reported improved sleep patterns, enhanced digestion, better social interactions, and reduced irritability, contributing to overall well-being.

What physiological effects were observed in patients after practicing Kundalini Yoga?

Patients showed significant reductions in pulse rate and blood pressure after practicing Kundalini Yoga for three and six months, restoring better physiological balance compared to pre-treatment metrics.

How does Kundalini Yoga compare to traditional antidepressant medications?

While both Kundalini Yoga and antidepressants improved depressive symptoms, Kundalini Yoga demonstrated more persistent clinical improvements with fewer side effects, suggesting it as a viable non-medical treatment alternative.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Mental depression and kundalini yoga�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.

1) Yoga (YogÄ):
Yoga is a holistic practice that integrates physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to enhance physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It is particularly relevant in treating mental health conditions like depression, as it promotes relaxation, mindfulness, and a balanced nervous system, thereby facilitating homeostasis and improving overall mental health outcomes.

2) Kundalini (Kuṇá¸alinÄ«, KundalinÄ«, Kumdalini):
Kundalini refers to a form of yoga that emphasizes the awakening of the kundalini energy believed to reside at the base of the spine. This practice incorporates specific techniques aimed at harmonizing body and mind, which may help alleviate depression by enhancing emotional stability, reducing stress, and promoting a deep sense of well-being.

3) Depression:
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. Its biological basis involves hormonal and neurotransmitter imbalances, notably affecting serotonin and cortisol levels. Understanding these mechanisms aids in exploring alternative healing practices like Kundalini Yoga as non-medical treatment options.

4) Drug:
Drugs, particularly antidepressants like tricyclics, are commonly utilized to manage depression by altering neurotransmitter levels in the brain. However, they can come with adverse side effects, making the exploration of non-drug therapies like Kundalini Yoga significant, as they may offer effective relief without pharmacological complications.

5) Blood:
Blood plays a crucial role in mental health assessments, particularly concerning depression, as it serves as a medium for transporting hormones and neurotransmitters. Changes in blood parameters, like increased cortisol or altered serotonin levels, can indicate physiological responses to stress or treatment, thus highlighting the importance of biochemical monitoring in therapeutic studies.

6) Asana (Āśana, Ä€sana, AÅ›anÄ, AÅ›ana, Ashana, AsaṇÄ�):
Asanas are physical postures practiced in yoga, designed to enhance strength, flexibility, and stability. In Kundalini Yoga, specific asanas contribute to releasing physical tension and calming the mind, facilitating mental clarity and emotional balance, which are essential for individuals suffering from depression, thereby enhancing overall mental health.

7) Hand:
In the context of Kundalini Yoga, the hand symbolizes the integration of action and intention. Hand gestures, or mudras, may be incorporated during practice to focus energy flow and promote meditative states. This intentional engagement can support therapeutic goals in reducing depression symptoms through enhanced mindfulness and body awareness.

8) Activity:
Activity, in this context, pertains to both physical and mental engagement. Regular activities such as yoga practice are essential for maintaining mental health. Engaging in structured activities promotes the release of beneficial neurotransmitters and aids in reducing stress, thereby serving as a foundation for managing conditions like depression effectively.

9) Science (Scientific):
Science plays a pivotal role in understanding the biochemical and physiological aspects of mental health disorders like depression. Research methodologies help quantify effects of practices such as Kundalini Yoga on serotonin, melatonin, and other hormones, fostering evidence-based approaches to treatment and validating ancient practices through modern scientific understanding.

10) Shavasana (Shava-asana, ÅšavÄsana, ÅšavasÄna, Åšavasana):
Savasana, or corpse pose, is a restorative yoga pose often practiced at the end of a session. It aids in deep relaxation and stress release, making it essential for mental rejuvenation. This state of rest allows for mental integration and processing of emotions, contributing positively to combating symptoms of depression.

11) Mental health:
Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how individuals think, feel, and act. Practices like Kundalini Yoga enhance mental health by addressing imbalances in neurotransmitters and hormones, thus providing an alternative pathway to manage mental illnesses, such as depression, beyond conventional medical treatments.

12) Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy typically refers to cancer treatment that involves drugs to kill or impede the growth of cancer cells. However, in the context of mental health, it serves as a term to highlight the need for diverse therapeutic approaches. Understanding its relevance emphasizes exploring holistic non-drug strategies like Kundalini Yoga for managing mental health.

13) Discussion:
Discussion reflects the analytical aspect of the study concerning the results obtained from practicing Kundalini Yoga versus drug treatments for depression. It involves interpreting data, extracting meaningful insights, and proposing theoretical frameworks that connect yoga's holistic benefits to biochemical changes observed in mental health, thus guiding future research directions.

14) Medicine:
Medicine traditionally encompasses drug-based interventions for health issues, including mental health disorders like depression. The rise of complementary practices like Kundalini Yoga reflects a shift towards holistic treatment, aiming to balance body and mind without the adverse side effects associated with pharmacological therapies, paving the way for integrative medical practices.

15) Kundali (Kuṇá¸alÄ«, Kuṇá¸alin, KundalÄ«, Kundalin):
Kundalin appears to be a typographical variation of 'Kundalini,' which may refer to the same concept of awakening the energy at the base of the spine. This practice aims to integrate mind and body through specific yoga techniques, fostering healing and improvement in mental health, particularly advantageous for individuals experiencing depression.

16) Devi (Devī):
Devi, often used as a title for female goddesses in Hinduism, imparts a sense of divinity to the practice of Kundalini Yoga. The spiritual aspect associated with Devi can enhance the overall experience of practitioners. By fostering a sacred connection through practice, it may deepen the emotional healing aspects beneficial to mental health.

17) Sage:
Sages are revered figures in various spiritual traditions, embodying wisdom and insight into the nature of existence. In Kundalini Yoga, their teachings emphasize the importance of inner peace and mental clarity, reflecting how ancient wisdom can inform contemporary mental health practices, offering valuable guidance in combating depression effectively.

18) Post:
Post refers to the positions and practices in yoga, especially in Kundalini Yoga where specific postures (asanas) are essential. These postures aim to align the physical body while facilitating proper energy flow, which is integral to achieving emotional stability and mental wellness, especially in therapeutic approaches addressing depression.

Other Science Concepts:

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Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Mental depression and kundalini yoga�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Kundalini Yoga, Yogic practice, Mental depression, Blood-pressure, Research study, Clinical improvement, Pulse Rate, Subjective improvement, Biochemical changes, Cortisol level, Treatment measure, Tricyclic antidepressant, Hormonal abnormalities.

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