Yogic Practices for Mental Health

Image via WikipediaSince long yogic practices are practiced in India. Simply sitting in a calm and quite place without any thought relieves a lot of mental tension and brings peace to mind. There are many Yogic postures. Each posture is for some specific health benefits. This practice has been recommended for hypertensive patients.
Now it has been seen that Yogic practices increase the level of neurotransmitters in brain; specifically gamma butyric acid (GABA). Gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA is a inhibitory chemical that helps to regulate nerve cell excitatory activity. GABA activity is seen to be in a reduced state in people with mood and anxiety disorders; and drugs that increase GABA activity are commonly prescribed to improve mood and decrease anxiety.
People with a GABA deficiency often experience:

• Anxiety symptoms
• Irritability
• Headaches
• Hypertension
• Palpitations
• Seizures
• Lower sex drive
• Disorders of the heart
• Depression

GABA works by controlling the brain’s rhythmic theta waves to help the brain maintain physical and mental balance. Excitation in the brain must be balanced with inhibition. Too much excitation can lead to restlessness, irritability, insomnia, and even seizures. GABA is able to induce relaxation, analgesia, and sleep.
This key brain chemical is also involved in the production of endorphins, brain chemicals, known as feel good hormones. Endorphins are produced in the brain during physical movement, such as stretching or even sexual intercourse. As endorphins are released people begin to feel a sense of calm often referred to as the Endorphin Effect.
Yogic practices are beneficial and without a cost.