Why we do Yoga, and Why it’s so important now
During times in our lives when so much feels out of our control- it is good to go within and learn strategies that are within our control and help us feel better.
If you have been practicing yoga for awhile, you've realized that most of the time, you feel much better once you've finished a yoga practice.
Yoga is a practice, but the science behind yoga is strong.
Pranayama (breath work), Asana (postures), and Present Moment Mindfulness work together to bring Yoga (union) of mind, body, spirit that help to slow down the mind, give a break to our sympathetic nervous systems and release muscle and ligament tightness and tension all over the body.
Right now, yoga can be a really important part of the puzzle to keeping us sane and healthy. If we practice yoga in that 80% effort zone (yoga is not an extreme sport :) and we move mindfully on our mats and practice our feel good strategies, we can leave feeling a sense that even though life feels a bit precarious and we are working hard off of our mats during these challenges- coming on to our mats can help us locate a certain strength and resilience inside.
Try these strategies (taken from an NPR Interview but well known in yoga) to feel better:
Take a longer exhale.
Try breathing in and lengthening the exhale to your comfort level. Most people breathe naturally in for a 2-3 count and out for a 2-3 count. Try extending those to a 4 count in and perhaps a 5-7 count out. Again go at your comfort level and don't strain. Notice how you feel after you've taken about 5 or so breaths.
Try Chanting Om or Humming Om on your Exhale.
Another strategy is to chant the OOOOMMMMMM sound.
Try taking a big breath in then opening the mouth in the shape of an O. then gradually close the mouth a bit and end with lips together MMMMMM.
Do this several times- go for it- make it loud.
The world is crazy right now anyway- we mine as well sound crazy as well :) you'll feel better!
Give yourself a hug.
Take one arm over the other and wrap your arms around yourself. If it feels good to pat yourself on the back or rub the hands downward to brush or massage the arms- go for it. With very little touch- or hugs amongst each other our bodies may be craving a hug. So go for it, give yourself a squeeze and repeat the mantra- All is Well, All is Well.
Always check in physically and mentally with sensation when you are finished. Notice how you feel, no judgement allowed.
We hope these strategies, alongside a regular yoga practice will remind you of the resilience and strength within you!