When you’re feeling stressed a gentle restorative class or Yin Yoga class can be just what the doctor ordered. If you are particularly stressed out and you aren’t in a situation where you can do a few yoga poses you can try a short mindful breathing exercise to calm your nervous system and soothe your mind.
Most of us will feel stress at some point in life, but too much stress can damage your health and even shorten your lifespan. No matter what the root of your stress it’s important to find relief. Yoga can provide stress relief when you need it most. You don’t have to do a full hour of practice to get the stress-relieving benefits of the practice. Taking a few minutes to do a couple of poses can make a big difference by calming your nervous system, relaxing tense muscles, and soothing your busy mind.
What is yoga?
Yoga is an ancient Indian practice that increases your physical and mental health. When you practice yoga, you use breath along with movement to deepen your mind-body connection.
Yoga isn’t reserved for people who are already flexible or in shape. Anyone can do it. Poses can be modified to fit any body type or physical ability. You don’t have to wear fancy yoga clothes or have an expensive yoga mat. You only need a willingness to learn.
Benefits of Yoga
Stretching and moving your body is good for your muscles. The human body was meant to move around after all.
Researchers have been studying yoga for years and have found that when practiced even for a few minutes it can lower stress hormone levels.
Studies have shown that yoga …
- Decreases stress
- Lowers blood pressure
- Lessens anxiety
- Slows heart rate
- Decreases inflammation
What to do when you’re stressed…
When you’re feeling stressed a gentle restorative yoga class or Yin Yoga class can be just what the doctor ordered.
If you are particularly stressed out and you aren’t in a situation where you can do a few yoga poses you can try this short mindful breathing exercise.
Sit up straight and breathe deeply through your nose. Be sure to breathe from your diaphragm, letting your belly and then your chest expand with each inhale to fill your lungs to capacity. Then slowly exhale through your nose. As you exhale let your muscles relax. Feel the tension flowing out of your body. Focus your mind on the feeling of the air moving through your nostrils. Take 10 slow steady breaths to calm your mind and body.
When you are in a space where you can do some yoga this 10-minute practice will relax the tension you’re holding in your body and melt away the stress.
We live in a hectic world, but with yoga on your side, you have the tools to keep stress at bay and walk through this busy world with a calm and steady mind. If you’re ready to start practicing regularly sign up for a 14-day trial with Omstars and find out how an at-home yoga practice can change your life.
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Photo by rishikesh yogpeeth on Unsplash
