Mental health has always been an inherent part of a person’s wellbeing yet it is today with omnipresent stressors that it is put to a test more than ever before. We are experiencing the highest rise in chronic stress, anxiety, and depression since the beginning of an era hence no wonder people are seeking solutions. Here is why yoga, an ancient Indian practice, has proven to be so effective in this struggle.
YOGA DECREASES ONE’S SYMPATHETIC RESPONSE WHICH IS FOLLOWED BY MULTIPLE BENEFITS
The human nervous system is divided into two compartments: the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. The first one is responsible for the so-called „fight-or-flight” response that is activated when we are under pressure and have to make some effort. Meanwhile, the latter is predominant when we are more relaxed and in no potential danger. Numerous studies have shown, by measuring sympathetic markers like amylase, that yoga extraordinarily lowers a person’s sympathetic response both short- and long-term. This, on the other hand, entails a combination of benefits both in the nervous and the hormonal systems. The brain gets signals to stabilize one’s heart rate and breathing rate as well as lower blood pressure, all of which are excessively high when in distress. At the same time, it decreases the levels of stress hormones like cortisol in the blood which only puts one in a calmer mood.
YOGA ALLEVIATES THE SYMPTOMS OF CHRONIC STRESS, ANXIETY, AND DEPRESSION
Accordingly, since yoga detangles the chaotic processes in our bodies when under stress, it should mitigate the symptoms of chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. As expected, it has been confirmed in copious research. In all studied groups the levels of stress, anxiety of any kind, and depressive symptoms were notably lower and the participants experienced their minds to be much clearer and more focused. Additionally, their sleep patterns improved what happens to be a significant change when battling the mentioned conditions. Undeniably, yoga positively affects everyone’s mental health and improves their quality of life.
DO SOME YOGA YOURSELF!
Yoga does not have to be hard - it is for everyone to benefit from. Here are three of some of the most relaxing hip openers as an incentive for you to try more.
FROG POSE
Start from all fours and lower your forearms to the ground, shoulder-distance apart. Move one of your knees to the side until you feel the stretch, keeping your shin on the ground. Then, let your second leg do the same. Adjust the stretch to your needs and liking.
PIGEON POSE
From Downward Dog, step your leg forward. Place your shin on the ground, perpendicular to your arms just behind your hands. Lower yourself to the floor while keeping the second leg straight. Either keep your spine erect or lay with your forehead on the ground to deepen the stretch.
THE MOST RELAXING TWIST
Lay flat on the floor with your arms on the sides of your trunk. Bring one of your knees to your abs. Grab it with the opposite hand and pull it to the opposite side of your trunk. Keep the second arm straight on the opposite side of the bent leg. Look into that direction as well. Stay in that position for as long as you wish to. Enjoy. Repeat with the second leg.
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