Matsyasana – Nadi Shodhana
Why do I always feel depressed? Why am I so full of inertia and stillness? Why does my mind feel heavy and dull? Why do I lack motivation and energy to do anything? Why does starting any task feel like moving a mountain? Why do I always feel like sleeping?
In Ayurveda, depression is considered a condition caused by coldness in the brain, when the Kapha dosha becomes imbalanced in the head region. It is as if a fog forms around the brain. When the fire element in the brain decreases, the mind becomes slow, and clarity, alertness, and freshness are lost.
What to do?
By practicing Matsyasana (Fish Pose), blood circulation to the brain increases, providing more oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. Simply put, it makes the brain feel refreshed. On the crown of the head there are marma (energy) points that directly affect the brain’s optimal function, such as Murdhni, Brahmarandhra, and Shivarandhra. In Matsyasana and other poses such as Sirsasana (Headstand), Dwi Pada Viparita Dandasana, and Pincha Mayurasana, these points are stimulated and blood flow to the brain increases.
What else can we do?
By practicing Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), the activity of the sympathetic nervous system decreases while the parasympathetic system is activated. Oxygen and prana flow alternately and evenly through the Ida Nadi (left nostril) and Pingala Nadi (right nostril), helping to refresh and balance the mind.
What else?
Drink the following herbal tea several times a day. It strengthens memory and acts as a natural antidepressant:
2 parts dried basil + 1 part rosemary + 1 part gotu kola + ½ part rose petals. Add one teaspoon of this blend to a cup of boiling water. Add a pinch of saffron and let it steep. Once ready, add a few drops of lemon juice, one teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt. Drink this tea 3–4 times daily.
Apply a facial mask every day. Doing so increases the fire element in the head area, helping to refresh and awaken the mind.
Mix 3 parts clove + 1 part cinnamon + 3 parts cedar + 1 part myrtle. (You can also use Ananda’s ready-made facial mask instead of this mix.)
Combine 1–2 teaspoons of this powder with a little warm water to form a soft paste. Apply the paste to your face and leave it for 20 minutes. Then rinse your face and gently dab it with a cotton pad soaked in rosewater. If you dislike the scent of rosewater, use fresh aloe vera gel instead.
Mix equal parts of black seed oil and sweet almond oil, and apply a small amount inside your nostrils once or twice daily.
Which exercise should we do?
– Run for 20 minutes or take a brisk 45-minute walk each day.
– Start your day with 6 to 12 rounds of Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) and Simhasana (Lion Pose). You can find tutorials for these online.
– Use essential oils of lavender and rosemary. Mix them in equal parts and apply the blend 2–3 times a day on your pulse points, behind your ears, and under your nose. You can also add a few drops to hot water and inhale the steam.
– Inhaling the aroma of esfand (Syrian rue) and frankincense also helps reduce depression, heaviness, and mental fog, leaving you feeling clearer and more alert.
For more home remedies and dietary advice for depression, click on the word Depression.
Wishing you health and happiness
Asana demonstrated by Rira Rostami
Written by Setareh Kiumarsi
Please mention the author’s name, Setareh Kiumarsi, when sharing this article, which has been lovingly written with the hope of well-being for all.
