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How come some Yogis seem so even tempered? How do Yoga practitioners manage to establish control over fits of anger? Will any Yoga technique help those who become physically violent? Let's look at some Yogic methods to empower you to take control of your feelings and anger.

Yogic breathing techniques (Pranayama) are highly underrated by the public at large. Among the many powers of Pranayama is the ability to release anger and tension from within your body and mind. Yoga teachers guide their students in a number of Pranayama techniques.

Here is a sample of a Pranayama technique, which you can use for anger management. Inhale for four seconds, hold for seven seconds, and exhale for eight seconds. Do this four times, without making any noise, before you say a word.

You should learn to do this so quietly, a person standing next to you would not know. Eventually, you will be able to do this for a much longer time span, which is fine. The one to two ratio of inhale to exhale will expel your anger and rid your body of toxins.

This breathing pattern is sometimes called the 4-7-8 breath, but it can also be modified for people who can not breathe as deep. For example: You can modify this Pranayama to - inhale for two seconds, hold for four seconds, and exhale for four seconds.

This breathing sequence is a 2-4-4 breath. The one to two ratio of inhale to exhale has still been maintained, but the sequence has been modified for those who have a shallow breath. When possible, the breath can be lengthened as the lungs get used to harnessing the air flow.

Extended breath retention may have to be modified to meet your needs. In the case of dizziness, pregnancy, high blood pressure, and breathing disorders, you should consult with a physician before practicing breathing techniques.

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. http://www.riyoga.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html

Copyright 2007 Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Millions of people use alternative therapies to treat their troubles. They continue to use it because it works for them. Western medication works, so why not alternative treatments. Some have been around for thousands of years.

People who don't know what it's like to have an anxiety disorder often give meaningless advice such as "snap out of it" or "you'd better pull up your socks somehow".

This is not only hurtful, but it can make the person feel resentful and angry. There is nothing more they would like to do than to snap out of it or pull their socks up.

However, it's not easy and generally, it can't be done without treatment. If it's not treated, it can carry on for months, possibly even years.

There Are Many Beneficial Alternative Therapies
Anxiety and depression alternative therapies can be very helpful for a lot of people, which is one reason why they carry on with it. It is also generally more affordable and the side effects tend to be less.

Other alternative therapies include hypnosis, yoga, exercise, acupuncture, reflexology, homeopathy and imaging. Hypnosis is definitely worth exploring.

Don't discount Chinese medicine. Also, you may want to consider Ayurvedic medicine as well.

Though there are many more, yoga might also be very beneficial. It is great exercise and also targets your breathing.

If you suffer from anxiety and/or depression, your doctor will most likely prescribe antidepressants. Antidepressants are effective in reducing the problems of anxiety disorders.

Antidepressants target serotonin, however, even your diet can do this. For example, niacin can influence serotonin. Foods that contain niacin include:

- chicken
- beef
- dates
- carrots
- legumes
- mushrooms

St. John's wort is a popular product that helps to calm the nervous system. It also helps to increase serotonin and another neurotransmitter called dopamine. Dopamine is important for the proper function of the central nervous system.

Always Consult A Qualified Medical Professional
However, ALWAYS SEEK PROPER MEDICAL help FIRST! For example, St. John's wort should NEVER be used with ANY antidepressant. This is why you should speak to a doctor first. St. John's wort is more recognized as a depression treatment.

Never take anything without consulting your doctor first. If you're on drug therapy, it's more important to work closely with your doctor. Some people don't like drugs and use alternative methods.

It's generally safe as they don't have to worry about adverse reactions, since they're not taking any drugs. If you do wish to take an alternative route, always make sure you are seeing a qualified professional.

If you don't like taking drugs for anxiety and depression alternative therapies could be something you may want to look into. In the long run, these may even be better for you.

http://www.panic-and-agoraphobia.com/anxiety-and-depression-alternative-therapies.html