In the past ten years, for good reason, yoga has been recommended more and more by psychiatrists and other mental health practitioners as a powerful tool to augment conventional talk therapy or pharmacologic work. The reasons are many -- but what it comes down to most -- is that yoga represents a powerful way of tapping into both endorphins and enkephalins -- naturally occurring long-chain proteins -- called polypeptides -- which enhance pleasure and relaxation. It also works to establish more release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) which can help neurons to grow and re-establish new pathways that can take patients out of destructive circles of thinking. If you don't already have a yoga practice in your life, it's easy to develop. Many classes are inexpensive and gladly welcome beginners. It's an easy way to add priceless value to your well being!
