The practice of yoga will always have a positive effect on mental health, as well as sexual wellness. Unlike other exercises, yoga connects with the mind on many vital aspects, including mindfulness, calm, awareness, gratitude, and yes, happiness.
To say that yoga is the recommended activity for those who need a mental health boost is an understatement. On the other hand, yoga can be taken up even by those who are already happy and mentally fit. People from all walks of life can start with simple and slow movements to gain the effects. Don’t forget that yoga also comprises breathing techniques and meditations, all of which are good for the body, mind, and soul.
The connection between yoga and mental health is actually the benefits you can get while practicing it. You can get more resilient, lean towards positive thinking, become aware of self-doubt and spiraling thoughts, and learn to be in full control of your mind. Once you have these traits then you build a strong sense of self that won’t be bothered by the usual problems of the world. In short, you become enlightened.
The 5 Learning Aspects of Yoga
Unlocked Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a rare and forgotten art in today’s world of instant gratification. By definition, mindfulness is a state of awareness of the ‘now’, which also means that you’re not thinking of yesterday (the past) or tomorrow (the future). By focusing on the present, you’re not saddled with worries or weighed down with problems.
Yoga practices mindfulness while in a state of non-movement. Typically, the exercise involves optimized breathing and centering yourself on just that one thing. Unlocking a state of constant focus isn’t achieved in just one day- it takes a lot of practice and hours of yoga to get to the point where you can snap back to reality in under a minute.
Mindfulness is a weapon against worry, anxiety, and stress associated with expectations. It’s such a useful trait to have in modern society because you’ll never get frazzled and can get back on the positive side of things quickly.
Mastery of Breathing
Who would have thought that breathing was so important for the body and mind? We often take this non-conscious activity for granted as we wake up in the morning and go to bed at night. You can draw a direct line to oxygen breathing produces as fuel for the brain, which then translates to energized thinking and having all the gears working.
Yoga teaches breathing in through the diaphragm and exhaling it forcefully. While it’s true that there are other techniques, they all have the same premise and benefit- to give the mind and body much-needed oxygen. It’s also a form of stress relief you can do anytime, anywhere. It’s easy to breathe, but it takes time before you’re able to practice mindful breathing and gain the effects.
Attuned to the Self
Self-awareness through yoga is not something that can be achieved in a single session. Like mastery of breathing, you grow as you practice and with the right guidance. Self-attunement is actually a result of mindfulness and centering. Some individuals only need weeks or months to gain this trait, while others can take years.
Mental health-wise, you’d have the advantage if you know how your mind works. By catching yourself immersed in negative thoughts can you only start to claw your way back to the top. Recognizing anxiety, depression, and bad habits can instantly give you the power to turn it around before it develops into a condition.
Self-attunement is actually a difficult trait to master, but if you’re patient enough you can achieve a level that’s sufficient for good mental health. The good news is that yoga can be done in short bursts and won’t require too much physical effort other than stability and core development.
Connected Energies
Various yoga exercises unlock a specific chakral energy that’s connected to a part of the body. You can learn more about this on the internet, in yoga books, and teachings of yogis. There are different approaches to yoga as well depending on the individual. Some start yoga to learn how to be mindful, while others want the physical benefits it provides. In the same vein, there are those who believe in unleashing their desired chakral energy so they can feel better.
These energies have ties to the mind and mental health. In a way, when you’re feeling more energized and refreshed you tend to see the bright side of things. As you go deeper into yoga practice and pick up more information you start to understand the mystical and spiritual energies circulating and unlock them through movement and meditation.
Movement and Exercise
Mindful Meditation. Yoga can be done sitting in a quiet room and on a comfortable pillow or blanket. Start with 10 minutes of sitting down and emptying your mind of thoughts. Some recommend focusing on your breathing, or thinking of beautiful scenery and holding it there. This unlocks better control over your thoughts and emotions.
Practiced Breathing. You can try common yoga breathing techniques on the internet. This can be done while sitting down on a chair or cross-legged on the floor. There’s usually a pattern or a set amount of time you’d draw a breath, then hold it in for a few seconds before letting it out.
Exercises. The rush of endorphins in the more vigorous movements can do wonders for mental health. Even the slower ones work amazingly well for core development and muscle stretching. When the body is active the mind benefits as well.
Conclusion
There’s no better time than now to start yoga for better mental health. Even for just a few minutes daily, or a few sessions per week, you’ll invariably get its benefits. Yoga is a deep practice with several aspects, including breathing, exercising, and more. Whether you’re holding a downward dog pose or focusing on your breathing while on the commute, you’re well on your way to a better psyche and well-being.
