In today’s fast-paced world, anxiety has become a common concern affecting millions of people globally. Daily stress and pressure can adversely affect our mental and physical health, leading to anxiety disorders.
Yoga, an ancient practice originating from India, has gained widespread popularity as a holistic approach to reducing anxiety and promoting overall mental and physical well-being.
Conscious breathing, along with consistent practice, can calm the mind and lead to a more balanced and peaceful life.
4 yoga asanas to calm the mind and body
In this article, we will learn about four yoga asanas that can help calm the mind and body, providing relief from anxiety.
1. Child’s Pose (Balaasana)
Child’s pose is a fundamental yoga pose that helps relax and reduce stress. It gently stretches the lower back, hips, thighs and ankles, promoting a feeling of peace and calm. To do this asana, sit on the mat with your knees bent, sit on your heels and extend your arms forward while resting your chest on the ground. Rest your forehead on the mat and focus on your breathing, allowing stress to melt away.
2. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjarasana)
Cat-Cow Pose is a dynamic yoga sequence that helps release tension in the back, neck and shoulders. This involves working on alternating between backbends and rounds, promoting flexibility and relaxation. Starting on your hands and knees, inhale as you arch your back (cow pose) and exhale as you arch your back (cat pose). This rhythmic movement encourages conscious breathing and calms the nervous system.
3. Corpse Pose (Savasana)
Savasana, or corpse pose, is a pose of deep relaxation and is an important part of any yoga practice. This involves lying on your back, extending your arms and legs, and focusing on conscious relaxation. This asana helps in releasing stress from the body and mind, thereby providing complete relaxation and inner peace. Controlled breathing during Shavasana helps reduce anxiety levels and promote a feeling of peace.
4. Pose of placing the feet on the wall (Viparita Karani)
Legs Up the Wall Pose is a restorative yoga asana that helps reduce anxiety and fatigue. This involves lying on your back with your legs propped up against a wall, promoting blood circulation and calming the nervous system. This pose helps reduce stress, insomnia, and anxiety, making it an excellent addition to a relaxation routine.
Incorporating these yoga asanas into your daily routine can contribute significantly to controlling anxiety and improving your overall mental and physical health.
Always remember to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise or yoga routine, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
