At one point or another, we have all experienced that feeling. We may have felt an increased heart rate; our chests may have tightened up, and we may have felt a little panicky. We might have even wanted to be somewhere else.
We all experience anxiety occasionally. The right amount can sharpen your mind and keep you focused. Too much anxiety, however, can wear your body down, as well as your nervous system and even your brain.
Can yoga be beneficial in those moments when anxiety seems overwhelming? Is taking a yoga class in London the answer to your anxiety? Read on and find out
YOGA CAN SOOTH YOUR FRAZZLED SYSTEM
Yoga can assist in relieving anxiety when practiced on a regular basis. Yoga is a great way to decrease the level of stress hormones in the body. The body really does not know the difference between “good” and “bad” stress. When you are anxious, your body produces a hormone called cortisol, which can create stress when produced in large amounts. Yoga helps to gradually lower the levels of cortisol in the body.
SHORT & FREQUENT PRACTICES MAY BE BETTER THAN LONGER BUT LESS OFTEN
Whenever practicing yoga, it is important to remember that time on the mat will not necessarily be equal to the benefits you’ll see. For example, if you have half an hour to spare and you rush through a half an hour yoga practice, you will likely see little to no benefit. However, if you were to practice just 5 minutes a day, five days a week, you would likely see a benefit.
EXPLORE DIFFERENT TYPES OF YOGA
Yoga is a vast and deep practice, so it is important to find a form of the practice that resonates with you. Do some research, ask around, and try a few different types of yoga. See what you like and what feels right to you.
A CALMING SPACE MATTERS
Creating a calming space to practice yoga can be helpful in reducing anxiety. Find a place where you can be alone or with a group of people who respect the need for silence. Also, make sure that you are comfortable and secure in this space. You might even want to use essential oil or two to create an atmosphere that inspires peace and tranquility.
FOCUS ON YOUR BREATHING
As you practice yoga, it is important to focus on your breathing. Breathing helps to bring your body and mind closer together. Conscious breathing can also encourage a feeling of calmness and peace. Try taking deep, slow, and controlled breaths.
Breathing can be a powerful thing. For some, simply concentrating on their breathing is a great way to help reduce the way stress and anxiety make them feel.
Sometimes, when we are feeling stressed or anxious, the uncomfortable feeling is so bad that we want to run from it. But then, it is just there. It follows you. And for some, anxious feelings can pop up every day, at any time.
Sometimes, we can’t run from it. Sometimes, it’s necessary to face it head-on. For those times, yoga can be a great tool to have in your toolbox. Or, if you have the time, you can give this quick and easy breathing exercise a try.
Yoga can help you to learn how to cope with anxiety in a healthy way. You can work to become more aware of your breathing and your body. You can learn to relax, stay calm, and feel at peace. If you need guidance, you can take a yoga course and do some research about yoga, too.
The Power Yoga Co. offers yoga classes in London in a studio where you can relax and find relief from stress and anxiety. Get in touch with us to know more about our yoga classes!