Yoga for Depression

by Tina Broyles, DRE 01009212 & NMLS 91630 10/20/2019

Most people simply think of yoga as a form of exercise or relaxation, but when practiced correctly, yoga can even change how your very DNA expresses itself in illnesses and depression. A review published in the journal Frontiers in Immunology, of 18 studies spanning ten years found that mindful exercises such as yoga, tai chi, and forms of meditation can both relax us and even push back on bodily reactions at the molecular level. They can switch on, or off, parts of our DNA that cause illnesses and depression.

How it works

Our bodies have both the normal nervous system and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Your SNS is the switch for your fight-or-flight mode, and when it flips on, your body releases all types of chemicals and hormones to help you ward off whatever threat there is. In the absence of stress, once the danger is gone, this system returns to normal, and all the extra hormones, chemicals, and proteins dissipate. But in modern life, human stress levels remain high due to increased cortisol and other factors in our bodies. The constant switching on of these mechanisms increases the body’s susceptibility to illnesses, cancers, and mental health challenges.

The basic breakdown is this: when the SNS activates, it releases a molecule responsible for controlling how genes express. When genes release proteins known as cytokines, they cause inflammation, which in turn, contributes to ill-health and disease.

Yoga and other mindful exercises appear to decrease the production of the inflammatory cytokines. Science Daily reports that these studies show a deposit of a molecular signature on cells that reverse the effects of stress and anxiety. 

Practitioners call yoga, tai chi, Qigong, and other mindful activities “Mind-Body interventions” or MBIs. The studies show that MBIs trigger the brain to push DNA processes along a different pathway, one that increases wellbeing rather than inflammation. In this way, MBIs re-wire our molecules to protect our mental health and even heal addictions. Cancers seem to proliferate in higher-stress, inflammatory situations, so reducing inflammation and stress appears to reduce the incidence of cancer in those that practice mindfulness.

While meditation and relaxation techniques also work in this process, the combination of both the mindfulness and the exercise decrease both the sympathetic response and improve other bodily functions, so if possible, doing both may have more benefit.

To learn yoga or join a tai chi class, visit your local health club, Y, or see if a community college offers courses.

About the Author
Author

Tina Broyles, DRE 01009212 & NMLS 91630

 

Headline: Tina Broyles: Your Expert Real Estate Agent for Fremont, San Jose, and the Bay Area | eXp Realty

Bio:

As a dedicated real estate professional and a long-time resident of the California Bay Area, I have been proudly serving the real estate community since 1987. My mission is to provide my clients with unparalleled professionalism, in-depth market knowledge, and a caring approach that has resulted in a business built almost entirely on referrals.

Your Trusted Real Estate Advisor in the Bay Area

I specialize in the vibrant and diverse real estate markets of Fremont, Campbell, San Jose, Saratoga, Cupertino, Sunnyvale, Morgan Hill, Santa Clara, Mountain View, and Milpitas, CA. With over three decades of experience, I have a deep understanding of these communities and can provide you with the insights you need to make informed decisions.

One of the most consistent compliments I receive from clients is about my responsiveness to their needs. Your goals are my top priority, and I am committed to being there for you every step of the way. I am honored to have been voted "Best of Milpitas" every year from 2000 to 2020, a testament to my dedication to my clients and my community.

About My Business: eXp Realty

As part of the innovative eXp Realty team, I bring a diverse set of skills and a commitment to excellence to every transaction. We leverage cutting-edge technology that is "beyond expectation" to provide you with a seamless and efficient real estate experience. My team and I offer the perfect balance of experience and professionalism to help you achieve your real estate dreams in the Bay Area.

Community Involvement

I believe in giving back to the community that has given me so much. I am a happily married mother of two and a proud grandmother to two beautiful granddaughters, Audrina and Chesney. In my free time, I enjoy golfing, exercising, and my weekly Bible study. I am also passionate about serving the homeless community in Milpitas and supporting our local businesses.

I would be honored to get to know you and your family and put my extensive real estate experience to work for you.

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