How to do Yoga when you're feeling burned out, depressed or unmotivated

Yoga is a wonderful way to take care of your body, mind, and spirit. It can help you to relieve stress, calm your mind, and improve your overall well-being. However, when you're feeling burned out or depressed, it can be challenging to get motivated to practice yoga. But the truth is, these are the times when yoga can be most helpful. Here are some tips on how to do yoga when you’re burned out or feeling depressed.

#1 Start with short practices

When you're feeling low, it can be challenging to commit to a full-length yoga class. Start small, with just five minutes a day. Five minutes might not seem like much, but it can make a significant difference. Gradually increase the time as you start to feel more comfortable.

#2 Just get on your mat

Some days, it can feel like a massive effort just to get out of bed. On those days, just getting on your mat can be a victory. Even if you stay in savasana or child's pose, the simple act of being present on your mat can be a grounding experience.

#3 Introduce yoga poses while in bed

On those mornings when you don't feel like getting out of bed, try introducing yoga poses while you're still in bed. Simple stretches like a spinal twist or reclined butterfly can help you to start the day off feeling more grounded.

#4 Do what you’re avoiding

Sometimes the things you're avoiding are the things you need to do the most. Maybe you've been avoiding slow classes like yin or restorative because you feel like you don't have enough time. Or perhaps you've been avoiding meditation because you feel like you can't sit still. Take a deep breath and just dive in. You might be surprised at how much better you feel after confronting the things you're avoiding.

60 Min Restorative Yoga

Feeling exhausted? Let's dive into a blissful state of complete relaxation!

This 60-minute Restorative Yoga class is designed to help you relieve stress and anxiety, deeply relax, and promote recovery. Grab some pillows and blankets from your bed or couch and change into something cozy! Get some props like a bolster (pillows, blankets), and a block (books). There are also some optional variations with a Yoga strap (or a belt) and a chair. Feel free to dim the lights and use some essential oils – or whatever helps you to relax. And then join me for this gentle and calming Yoga practice – suitable for all levels including beginners – to enjoy its many benefits!

Free Restorative Yoga Class

#5 Fill your cup

You cannot pour from an empty cup. This means taking care of yourself, every day. Drink water, eat nourishing meals, get enough sleep, and make time for the things that make you feel good.

#6 Remember, you are limitless

When you're feeling burned out or depressed, it can be hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But remember, you are limitless. You may not feel it right now, but there is room for you to grow and expand. Take it one day at a time, one breath at a time, and know that things will get better.

#7 Care for yourself every day

Finally, care for yourself every day. Even on days when you don't feel like it. Whether it's a few minutes of yoga, a bit of stretching at your desk, a cup of tea, your favorite coffee, or a long walk in nature, do something that makes you feel good and connected. For some, it helps to add those little self-care moments into the calender. Plan it out! Remember, self-care is not selfish. It's essential for your overall well-being.

In conclusion, when you're feeling burned out or depressed, yoga can be an incredibly powerful tool to help you feel better. By starting with short practices, getting on your mat, introducing yoga poses while in bed, confronting the things you're avoiding, filling your cup, remembering that you're limitless, and caring for yourself every day, you can start to feel more grounded, present, and at peace.