Depression in Millennials - The Yoga Institute

Renuka sat in The Yoga Institute counselling office and wiped her flowing tears on her sleeve. She even refused the scratchy tissue offered by the counsellor. “I’m thinking my peers are doing better with good job offers even before they graduate. I have no job offers. I have no idea or any clue what to do with my life. I was thinking about just applying for an MBA programme after I graduate because that is what others are doing.” Renuka had mild depression during her teen years due to parental pressure. It deteriorated during her first year of college because she moved away from her parents’ house to a hostel. She found it difficult to balance studies, socializing, homework and her part-time job. She quit her part-time job, was still unable to do cope with her homework and often stayed wide awake till 3 a.m. trying to complete homework. She did not know how to manage her time without her parents’ support who used to keep a track.

The researchers recommend that intrusive parenting inhibits the development of competence and decision making. Helicopter parenting can lead to increased dependency and reduced ability to finish tasks without parental supervision.

According to WHO News depression is a silent killer and affects over 300 million people. In India, over five crore people suffer due to varying levels and types of depression.

Smt. Hansaji– “Depression is a state where the person doesn’t know what she/he is doing. Understanding about life and the right perspective is missing. Life has a good side that is overlooked. Yes, life has a good side in every situation. Positivity is much needed at this point in time. She/he should have faith in the family members and doctors who are treating her/him. She/he should listen to whatever they say.

In depression, the balance state of mind is disturbed. The best thing an individual can do is to let the physical body take over. It helps immensely if yoga asanas, soothing pranayama and kriyas are done at this time. Avoid meditation.”

Practical Effective tips:

The simplest thing you can do to calm the mind is counting your breath and to equalize it.
Talk a walk in nature and focus on nature sounds the birds, bees etc.
Make it a habit to do 20 minutes of brisk walking in the morning or evening while listening to pleasant nature sounds or music as it really helps.
Soak in early morning sunrays.
Include citrus fruits in your daily diet likes lemons, oranges etc. They are rich in Vitamin C and are natural mood enhancers.

Recommended Asana and Pranayama:

Paschimottanasana – A powerful asana as it strengthens the spine, and increases will power and courage.
Dhanurasana –Improves confidence and helps to regulate the hormonal system better.
Bhujangasana – Strengthens the spine and respiratory system is benefitted.
Chakrasana – Naturally opens up the upper respiratory function & body and uplifts the mood.
Surya Namaskar or salutations to the Sun.
AnulomVilom Pranayama
Yogendra Pranayama – IV or Abdominal breathing
Bhramari Pranayama

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