Yoga has long been recognized for its beneficial impact on psychological health as the practice of Yoga includes physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation, all of which contribute to enhancing psychological well-being. It offers a powerful and comprehensive approach to promoting psychological health and well-being as through its combination of physical postures, breathwork, and meditation, Yoga provides a multifaceted toolkit for managing and improving psychological well-being and regular practice of Yoga has been shown to decrease stress, uneasiness, and depression while improving overall emotional resilience and self-awareness.
The conscious and meditative aspects of Yoga help tranquilize the mind, improve focus, and promote a sense of inner peace. Yoga also encourages self-care and self-compassion, fostering a positive relationship with oneself hence, by incorporating Yoga into our lives, individuals can cultivate a healthier mind-body connection, finding balance, serenity, and improved psychological health.
However, it is important to note that while Yoga can be beneficial for psychological health, it is not a substitute for professional psychological health treatment. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or mental health professional for personalized guidance and support.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Pritika Singh, CEO at Prayag Hospitals Group, shared, “Stress, anxiety, and other psychological health issues have become increasingly common these days. To enhance their psychological well-being, many individuals are seeking holistic approaches which includes adapting a healthy lifestyle backed by exercise, walking, and more. However, apart from these, practicing Yoga also offers a powerful solution. With its combination of physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation, Yoga can be a transformative practice for psychological health.”
According to her, following are five Yoga practices that are particularly beneficial for promoting psychological well-being –
The simplest yet most profound yoga practice for psychological health is Savasana, also known as the Corpse Pose. As the name suggests, it simply involves lying down on your back, completely relaxed, with arms by your side and eyes closed. Savasana helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and induce a state of deep relaxation. This pose promotes a sense of inner peace and rejuvenation, reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality.
Another one is Pranayama which is the practice of controlling the breath. It is considered to be the cornerstone of yoga that significantly impacts psychological well-being. It includes techniques such as deep abdominal breathing, alternate nostril breathing, and the victorious breath (Ujjayi Pranayama) that help regulate the nervous system and bring about a sense of calmness and mental clarity. By focusing on the breath, pranayama cultivates mindfulness, reduces stress levels, and promotes emotional stability, making it an excellent practice for anxiety and depression management.
Yoga Nidra, also known as yogic sleep, is a guided meditation practice that facilitates deep relaxation and heightened self-awareness. Yoga Nidra induces a state of conscious deep sleep, allowing you to access the subconscious mind and release psychological and emotional blockages. It involves lying down in a comfortable position while listening to a guided meditation that takes you through different stages of relaxation. Regular practice can ease out symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), insomnia, and anxiety, while enhancing overall psychological resilience.
Siddhasana, also known as the Accomplished Pose, is a classical seated posture used in yoga and meditation practices. It is considered one of the most effective and powerful sitting poses for spiritual and energetic purposes. The term “Siddhasana” is derived from two Sanskrit words: “Siddha,” meaning “accomplished” or “perfected,” and “asana,” meaning “pose” or “posture.” This pose is often used for meditation due to its ability to create a calm and focused state of mind. The seated position and the alignment of the spine in Siddhasana promote mental focus and concentration, making it easier to engage in contemplative practices. Siddhasana is said to awaken and direct the flow of prana (life force energy) in the body, leading to increased vitality and improved overall health.
Another Yoga practice that is useful to tackle psychological health issues is Balasana, also known as Child’s Pose. It is a popular yoga posture and involves a gentle, kneeling pose, providing a sense of comfort, calmness, grounding, and several other benefits. This yoga posture gently stretches the hips, thighs, and ankles, while also releasing tension in the lower back and shoulders. The pose helps to calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. It can also be used as a resting position during a yoga practice or as a counterpose to more vigorous postures. However, Balasana may not be suitable for everyone. If someone has knee or ankle injuries, it’s advisable to use props like a bolster or folded blanket to support your body and make the pose more accessible. It’s always a good idea to listen to your body and modify the pose as needed to ensure your comfort and safety.
Pritika Singh concluded, “As with any Yoga pose, it’s important to listen to your body and modify the pose as needed. If you have any specific health concerns or injuries, always consult a qualified yoga instructor first. Overall, the ancient practice of Yoga offers a holistic approach to psychological health and well-being. The beauty of yoga lies in its versatility, making it accessible to individuals of all ages and physical abilities. The above-mentioned Yoga practices provide invaluable tools to navigate life’s challenges, manage stress, and nurture a profound connection between the mind, body, and spirit. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, incorporating these Yoga practices into your daily routine can contribute to optimal psychological health and a more balanced and fulfilling life.”
Leave feedback about this