Asanas

• Asanas are essentially different positions in the exercise/meditation form of yoga. When a position is described by name, that particular position is known as an asana. Asanas are generally used in yoga to open the mind and body. Asana names are generally ancient or foreign names and are sometimes given more understandable names, such as "dead-man's pose" or "cobra."
  
  

Bipolar Disorder

• Bipolar disorder is often called manic depression. It is a condition in which a person undergoes extreme mood swings to the point that it interferes with everyday life and activities, including school, work and relationships. The "highs" are known as manic episodes, and the "lows" are known as depressive episodes. Bipolar disorder is blamed on an inbalance of chemicals in the brain, making it hard to impossible to control one's emotions.
  
  

How Asanas Help

• Asanas done when practicing yoga effect parts of the brain that deal with stress, anxiety and emotion. Yoga has been known to control the anxiety and depression symptoms, which go along with bipolar disorder. The meditation and peace that is associated with yoga also helps by helping the patient get in touch with her mind, helping her better control her emotions and episodes. The meditation and calming positions practiced in yoga are known to alter levels of chemicals, such as serotonin, in the brain, affecting mood.
  
  

Related Benefits of Asanas

• One of the largest contributors to bipolar disorder and one you and your therapist will most likely work on is the reduction of stress. Asanas and yoga have been known to effectively de-stress one's life, making it one of the biggest reasons it is chosen as a therapy. Yoga has also been known to improve energy levels, give people higher self-awareness and self-worth, and increase spiritual awareness.
  
  

Warnings

• It is important to note here that yoga, like other forms of exercise, is not for everyone. In addition, yoga will not cure bipolar disorder. Asanas are meant to be used in conjunction with other traditional treatment methods like medications and therapy. If you have any questions about whether asanas may work for you or as an exercise regimen in general, talk with your therapist or family doctor first.