Let’s explore five ways yoga can help you find calm amidst the chaos.
Let’s face it, life can seem pretty chaotic these days. Stress seems to be a constant companion between studies, deadlines and the constant buzz of social media. But what if there was an antidote that didn’t require a prescription or cost a fortune? Participate in yoga.
Yes, yoga—often linked with twisty poses and extreme flexibility—is a great way to manage stress. It’s not about showing off on Instagram; it’s about finding physical and mental relaxation. Yoga can be your calm spot in the middle of your busy day. Here’s what you need to know from Dr Narendra K Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer at Kshemavana, Bangalore.
1. Relax and unwind: Forget about intense gym routines. Yoga poses, or asanas, are designed to gently stretch and strengthen your body. Poses like Child’s Pose (Balasana) and Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) release tension in your shoulders, back and neck – places known to harbour stress. As you move through these poses, focus on your breathing so that it becomes slow and deep. This conscious breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, the body’s cooling switch, counteracting the stress response.
2. Mute the chatter: Do you ever feel like your mind has a million tabs open at once? Yoga includes meditative practices that train concentration. By focusing on your breath or a mantra (repeated sound or phrase), you learn to acknowledge your thoughts without getting stuck in them. Imagine your mind as a dirty desk. Meditation can help you declutter and find a sense of inner peace.
3. Stamina Boost: Let’s face it, the world throws curveballs. Yoga is not about creating a stress-free bubble; it’s about equipping yourself to better handle challenges. When you hold poses that require balance and focus, you develop mental and physical strength. This can be seen in everyday life, making you better equipped to navigate stressful situations without feeling overwhelmed.
4. The Beauty of Accessibility: Yoga is not a one-size-fits-all practice. There are different styles, from dynamic Vinyasa flow to restorative Yin yoga. Beginner classes are available online or at local studios. Remember that yoga is not a competition. It’s all about finding what works for you, even if it’s just a few minutes of gentle stretching and deep breathing on your bunk.
5. Start small, and reap big rewards: You don’t need to fancy equipment or hours of free time to reap the benefits of yoga. Start with 10–15 minutes a day. There are plenty of free yoga routines online to get you started. As you feel more comfortable, you can gradually increase the duration or explore different styles.
In an increasingly busy world, yoga reminds us to slow down, reconnect with ourselves and find inner peace. It’s an investment in your well-being, a practice that allows you to navigate the chaos more flexibly and calmly. So, roll up the rug, take a deep breath and find your island of peace in the storm.
