Yoga for Mental Health
Discover the Power of Yoga for Mental Health
Healing isn’t always found in words alone. Sometimes, it begins in the rhythm of your breath, the stillness of your mind, and the way your body moves through space. Yoga for mental health invites you to step beyond traditional talk therapy and supplement your mental health journey with a practice where movement and mindfulness become powerful tools for emotional balance and mental well-being.
If you searched ‘yoga for mental health near me” and are in the Chicago area – you are in the right place. Unlike a typical yoga class, yoga for mental health is an evidence-informed practice that integrates movement, breathwork, mindfulness, and guided relaxation. While psychotherapy focuses on processing experiences through dialogue, yoga for mental health helps you de-stress in real time—through your body. Our yoga for mental health classes are designed to feel supportive, restorative, and safe for every participant.
Key Takeaways
- Yoga for mental health reaches beyond exercise. Yoga strengthens parts of the brain responsible for attention, memory, and awareness. At Serengeti Wellness, we carry this tradition forward by honoring yoga’s roots as a holistic mind–body practice.
- It complements—not replaces—therapy. While not a substitute for psychotherapy or medical treatment, yoga as therapy can enhance your wellness routine. Classes provide a safe and restorative space where you can unwind, recharge, and integrate body-based practices alongside traditional care.
- Classes at Serengeti Wellness are small and intentional. With no more than 11 participants, you’ll receive thoughtful, individualized guidance. This small-group structure creates an environment where healing feels personal, safe, and deeply supported.
- The benefits extend beyond the mat. NIH research shows yoga for mental health reduces stress, improves mood, sharpens focus, and deepens mind–body connection. These skills and benefits often carry into daily life, strengthening relationships, productivity, and emotional balance.
- This is culturally conscious care. Our licensed instructors create a compassionate, trauma-informed environment where all are welcome. Every class is designed to honor emotional and physical safety, making space for healing no matter where you are on your journey.
Yoga for Mental Health Class Offerings
Yoga for Beginners
This class is designed for those who are new to yoga or returning after a long break. Through accessible movement, breath awareness, and simple mindfulness practices, beginners are invited to build confidence, increase body awareness, and move at a steady, supportive pace. By creating a foundation of ease and curiosity, this class helps develop a sustainable practice that meets you exactly where you are.
Yoga for Anxiety and Stress
This class is designed for anyone navigating the weight of stress, overwhelm, or chronic anxiety. In this class, participants are invited to slow down, settle their nervous systems, and reconnect with a sense of calm. By creating space for regulation and release, this class supports emotional balance and builds tools for resilience.
Yoga for Therapists
This class is designed specifically for mental health professionals who spend their days caring for others. Through mindful movement, grounding breathwork, and restorative practices, therapists are invited to pause, replenish their energy, and reconnect with themselves. By creating space for self-care, this class helps reduce burnout and supports the resilience needed to continue doing meaningful work.
Yoga for Anxiety
Centered on calming the nervous system, this class uses breath practices, gentle postures, and mindfulness techniques to ease the physical and emotional weight of anxiety. Participants learn tools to ground themselves in the present moment, release tension, and cultivate a sense of steadiness. The supportive small-group environment makes it easier to practice relaxation and self-regulation with guidance and compassion.
Yoga for Depression
This class focuses on movement and mindfulness practices that gently reawaken energy, lift mood, and build resilience. Through a combination of breathwork, energizing yet accessible postures, and guided relaxation, participants are supported in reconnecting with their body and cultivating hope. Each session is designed to meet you where you are, providing a safe and nurturing path toward emotional balance and well-being.
Honoring the Roots of Yoga
At Serengeti Wellness, we honor yoga as a practice with deep, sacred roots in South Asian traditions. We acknowledge that yoga is not ours to claim, but a lineage that has been generously shared and, at times, appropriated through its Western adaptation. Our intention is to practice and teach yoga therapy with humility, respect, and awareness of its origins—recognizing the wisdom of the communities and teachers who cultivated this tradition for thousands of years.
In every class, we approach yoga not as a trend or performance, but as a mindful, healing art rooted in connection, presence, and collective well-being. By holding space for both the cultural and spiritual depth of yoga, we strive to engage with the practice in a way that is inclusive, ethical, and aligned with Serengeti Wellness’ mission of honoring heritage, integrity, and care.
Sign Up for Yoga for Mental Health
Starting October 14th, 2025. Space Limited to 11 Participants Per Class
What is Yoga for Mental Health?
Yoga for mental health is an approach that combines physical postures, breathwork, meditation, and guided relaxation to support both body and mind. Each practice is designed to calm the nervous system, improve focus, and build self-awareness. It is important to note that yoga for mental health is not psychotherapy or medical care. Instead, it complements these forms of mental health treatment, offering a holistic path that bridges mental health care with a physical practice.
A Supplement to Your Mental Health Care
Yoga as therapy works best as part of a broader mental health routine. Yoga and mental health therapy can go hand in hand to create a holistic approach to mental wellness. It does not replace talk therapy, medication, or medical treatment—but it enhances them. Many clients find that by combining counseling with body-based practices, they experience deeper resilience, greater emotional regulation, and a stronger connection to themselves.
Participation is always voluntary and at your own pace. You are encouraged to listen to your body, adapt poses as needed, and rest whenever you choose. This emphasis on self-agency is central to the practice. While confidentiality is encouraged, group classes are not psychotherapy groups, so confidentiality among participants cannot be guaranteed.
Benefits of Yoga for Mental Health
Stress Reduction and Emotional Regulation
Yoga for mental health engages both the body and breath to calm the nervous system. By practicing mindful movement and intentional breathing, participants can release physical tension while learning tools that support emotional regulation. Over time, these practices help create space between stressors and reactions, allowing for greater balance and resilience in daily life.
Improved Focus and Mental Clarity
The mindful attention practiced in yoga for mental health strengthens concentration and mental clarity. Yoga for mental health enhances brain function in areas responsible for memory, attention, and awareness. This means participants often notice sharper focus, improved productivity, and an increased ability to remain present—even outside of class.
Greater Mind–Body Awareness and Resilience
One of yoga for mental health’s most powerful outcomes is reconnecting you with your body. As you learn to notice and honor physical sensations, you also deepen your awareness of emotional patterns. This awareness builds resilience, empowering you to navigate challenges with a stronger sense of connection to yourself and your needs.
Enhanced Respiratory Health, Flexibility, and Strength
Beyond mental and emotional benefits, yoga as therapy improves physical well-being. Evidence from the NIH shows yoga enhances respiratory function, physical flexibility, muscular strength, and neuromuscular performance. These physical gains not only improve quality of life but also directly support mental health by fostering energy, vitality, and a greater sense of ease in the body.
Why Choose Yoga for Mental Health at Serengeti Wellness?
A Mission Rooted in Healing and Belonging
Our mission is to create a sanctuary where healing feels both safe and accessible. Inspired by the resilience of the Serengeti, we are dedicated to reshaping the narrative around mental health—moving beyond stale, outdated approaches and toward holistic, culturally attuned care that honors the fullness of who you are.
Small Classes, Intentional Care
Our yoga for mental health classes are an extension of this mission. With a maximum of 11 participants, led by a certified yoga instructor and talk therapist, each class is designed to ensure that you feel seen, supported, and cared for. This structure creates an environment where healing can unfold at your own pace, without the overwhelm of larger, impersonal settings.
Meet Our Instructors
Inclusive, Compassionate Guidance
Madeline McDonnell
Certified Yoga Therapy Instructor | Psychotherapist | LCPC, NCC, M.A.
Emily Heo
Registered Yoga Instructor | Psychotherapist | LPCWhat to Expect in Class
Each yoga for mental health class at Serengeti Wellness is 45 minutes long and blends mindful movement, breathwork, stretching, and guided relaxation. A typical session may also include short discussions about self-care and ways to integrate these practices into your daily routine.
You will always be encouraged to listen to your body and adapt movements to your needs. Common modifications are offered, and taking breaks is welcomed. Risks with yoga for mental health are minimal, but as with any physical activity, mild discomfort or strain may occur. Your safety and comfort are our highest priorities.
When do classes begin?
Yoga for mental health in Chicago – classes will launch the week of October 13, 2025 with a schedule to be confirmed with the instructor – stay tuned.
How many people will be in each class?
Each yoga for mental health class is limited to 11 participants, ensuring personal attention and a supportive, community feel.
What is the cost to attend?
You can attend a single class for $35, or save by purchasing a package: 5 classes for $150 (a savings of $25) or 10 classes for $275 (a savings of $75).
How long is each class?
Each session lasts 45 minutes, allowing enough time to ground, move, breathe, and restore without feeling rushed.
What makes the small-group model unique?
Our intentionally intimate setting ensures that you are not just another face in the room. You’ll receive thoughtful guidance while also sharing space in a compassionate community rooted in care and inclusivity.
Do I need prior yoga experience to join?
No. Our mental health yoga for mental health classes are designed for all levels, from complete beginners to seasoned practitioners. Every session includes modifications so you can move in a way that feels right for your body.
Is your yoga for mental health class covered by insurance?
Yoga therapy at Serengeti Wellness is a private-pay service and not billable to insurance. Payment is due at the time of service unless otherwise arranged.
What should I bring to class?
We recommend comfortable clothing you can move in, a yoga mat, and water. Props such as blocks or straps are optional but can make poses more accessible.
Is participation confidential?
While confidentiality is encouraged, group yoga for mental health sessions are not psychotherapy groups, so confidentiality among participants cannot be guaranteed. However, no medical or psychotherapy records are created for yoga for mental health; only basic attendance notes may be kept.
What if I have an injury or medical condition?
Please consult with your physician before beginning if you have health concerns. You are encouraged to share any limitations with your instructor, who will help you adapt practices safely.
The Next Step in Your Healing Journey Starts Here
Yoga for mental health at Serengeti Wellness offers a meaningful way to deepen your path toward wellness. By blending movement, mindfulness, and breath with traditional therapy, you are invited to nurture your mind and body together—building resilience, restoring balance, and cultivating lasting well-being that extends beyond the mat.
Our classes are designed to provide structure and spaciousness, giving you the tools to manage stress, reconnect with yourself, and carry those skills into your daily life. With classes beginning on October 14 and space limited to just 11 participants, now is the perfect moment to take the next step in your healing journey and experience the difference a holistic approach can make.