5 Yoga Poses to Help Uplift Your Mood When You are Feeling Low

Several studies have shows that yoga is an effective complementary treatment to treat depression. Researchers have found that certain yoga poses when done over a period of time alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Celebrity yoga guru and Himalayan Siddha, Grand Master Akshar, says, "You can develop your mind and body to defend yourself against depression and anxiety through practices like yoga. " He suggests a few asanas that you can do at home to stay upbeat and keep anxiety at bay. 

Vajrasana in Apana Mudra

Gently drop your knees down. 

Rest your pelvis on your heels. 

Keep your heels close to each other. 

Hold Apana Mudra

Apana Mudra

"In Apana mudra, we join the tip of the middle and ring finger with the tip of the thumb," says Akshar.

Naukasana in Adi Mudra

Lie down on your back.

Lift up your upper and lower body to balance on your sitting bones.

Keep your knees and back straight

Keep your arms parallel to the ground and hold Adi mudra

Adi Mudra 

"Press your thumb against your palm, and touch the base of your little finger joint on the palm with the tip of your thumb, in both hands. Then join your other fingers (closing the gap between them) and clench them inward to wrap around the thumb, forming a fist," says Akshar.

 

Savitriasana

Begin in Samasthithi.

Slowly drop your knees on your mat.

Keep your knees and heels parallel to each other.

Straighten your back, lift both arms up and look forward.

Do not hold this pose for too long.

 

Vajrasana in Suchi Mudra

Gently drop your knees down. 

Rest your pelvis on your heels. 

Keep your heels close to each other. 

Hold Suchi Mudra

Suchi mudra

"Tighten both fists and place them in front of your chest. Pull the right arm to the right and point the index finger upwards. Also, together, spread the left arm to the left," says Akshar.

Yoga is considered as a therapeutic activity that has benefits for both the mind as well as the body. Along with these asanas, you can also practise meditation.