It mainly affects muscles and their attachments to bones. The cycle of pain and other physical symptoms often leads to frustration, fear, anxiety and other forms of emotional upset. Among recommended treatments are moderate physical exercise that stretches muscles and improves cardiovascular fitness, and relaxation techniques. Yoga requires no special equipment and can be done throughout the day, a few techniques at a time, as needed to maintain energy and strength. Many techniques can be done in a chair, or even in bed.
Yoga exercises stretch and relax the major muscle groups and help release tension and fatigue.
Exercises that involve compression are especially beneficial as they work to relax tight, sore muscles, stimulate circulation and the hormonal system, and push fresh oxygen throughout the body. In addition to strengthening and limbering the muscles, Yoga exercises leave one revitalized. Yoga breathing exercises counteract fatigue and lethargy and help to reduce harmful stress reactions. Deep, rhythmic breathing helps to lift depression and reduces anxiety and inertia. In depression, the breath becomes more shallow and less oxygen is available to the brain.