Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word Yoga is a Sanskrit word which means to unite. Yoga is practiced worldwide now for health and relaxation combining Pranayama (breathing) and Asanas (postures). In practising Yoga, we gradually awaken to a clearer understanding of who we are.
The physical postures open up all the channels in the body so that everything can flow more freely. Focusing on our breath will help to still a busy mind and to bring us into the present moment.
The benefits of Yoga are endless. The postures help to strengthen and lengthen muscles, build flexibility in the joints, improves balance and concentration, improves lung capacity and lowers stress or anxiety.
When we feel worried and anxious, tension builds in our bodies and minds. Tension in the body over a period of time can leave the body vulnerable to mental or physical disorders. When we are tense, our bodies suffer. I understand how important it is to listen to our bodies, to be aware of our breath and our bodies. Having suffered from anxiety disorder for over two years, which then developed into agoraphobia, I have seen for myself just how fragile we are. Anxiety can be overwhelming and crippling but practicing Yoga will help to relieve anxiety.[/vc_column_text]
7/11 Breathing technique
Find somewhere comfortable to sit and you can practice this with your eyes closed. Inhale to the count of 7 and exhale to the count of 11. Try to inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. If you find it difficult to breathe in and out for that long, just shorten the timing e.g 5/8 inhale to 5 and exhale to 8. Make this technique a part of your natural response to feeling anxious, the faster your physical body will relax and your mind will become calm. Breathing is directly linked to our emotional state. Slow your breathing down and your mind and body will follow.
Cat/Cow Pose
This pose provides a gentle massage to the spine and organs in the stomach. Start on your hands and knees in a “tabletop” position with a straight spine. Make sure your knees are hip distance apart and your wrists, elbows and shoulders are in line. Inhale and arch your spine, looking up towards the ceiling. Exhale and round your spine, tuck your chin and look down towards the mat. Stay here for as many rounds as you like, stretching out your spine and back muscles. Try to move with your breath and on your final exhale come back to neutral spine.
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