Triggers for anxiety have always been relatively ambiguous, but there are several factors that can lead to it. Some of the common factors include stress, fear, self-esteem issues, environmental problems, and chemical imbalances in the brain. Symptoms of anxiety vary depending on who is suffering from it and may include depression, panic attacks, or obsessive behaviors, among others. Yoga has proven to be an effective method for dealing with all kinds of anxiety.
People suffering from severe cases of anxiety might feel like they’re losing control over their lives – yoga can help them to regain this lost sense of control. The person becomes more aware of how their body functions during breathing exercises which can help build self-confidence as well as mental strength. One example of mindful breathing can happen when a person hyperventilates – placing a hand over one’s heart, taking a few deep breaths and checking to see if the heart rate is normal can be very effective in calming anxiety. Here at ChildLight Education Company, our expert yoga & mindfulness trainers are committed to giving you the tools that can potentially help you manage your anxiety. Let’s further assess how yoga can be a force multiplier for mitigating anxiety and stress.
Incorporates Elements Of Meditation & Relaxation
Yoga encourages its participants to hone into the fundamental qualities of meditation and relaxation. Meditation can be useful as it can help you learn to be more mindful and aware of the present moment, all while dispelling the notion of judgment. When it relates to yoga postures, these can be challenging for beginners or for those with limited mobility. Just like in life, whenever something challenges you in such a way that can induce stress, focus on your breathing. This practice can augment your approach to dealing with a stressful situation. Whether it’s in preparation for a big exam, studying, or quieting your mind before going to bed, this level of mindfulness will go a long way in every aspect of your life.
There’s More To Yoga Than Stretching
From the outside looking in, yoga can come off as a series of intricate stretches for the average person. While the postures themselves can be challenging at times, an experienced yoga teacher will always emphasize the multitude of modifications for a posture that will complement all of our natural abilities. Yoga requires no special equipment, so it can be practiced in almost any environment. It’s a good exercise for relieving tension in the body. Due to so much time spent working on a computer or simply sitting on the couch, the areas of our bodies that carry the most stress will usually include the neck, shoulders, back, hips and hamstrings. The point being, yoga is more than just a physical exercise. Getting the most out of these postures is only possible if you focus on more than just the body. The connection between the mind and breathing techniques is also pivotal.
Getting The Most From The Experience
As previously stated, when you’re immersed in a yoga posture, start training yourself to think about how you can unite your body, brain and breath to work together harmoniously. When we endure bouts of stress and anxiety, we often fall into the pattern of thinking in “what ifs” and focusing on the future, instead of living in the now. Instead of letting your thoughts wander aimlessly, use yoga as a way to stay disciplined. Being in the moment will enhance your ability to focus and concentrate on what matters in the moment, and in turn, this can help in managing many of your stressful and anxious feelings and trepidations.
Working Alongside A Professional Yoga Teacher
If you’re looking to deepen your knowledge of yoga & mindfulness, look no further than our team at ChildLight Education Company. Contact us today to set up a time to speak!
*Image from Better.net