Yoga For Stress Relief And Anxiety

Yoga breathing is called pranayama. Pranayama (or "control of the life force"), also literally translated as, "breath control," is just that. Controlled breathing in different styles has a detectable, and welcomed effect, on the psyche and the body.

Slow the heart rate, feel less out of breath, and relax your muscles, beginning with your breath. Research has shown that yoga breathing techniques are beneficial treatment for stress and stress-related problems. The mind is calmed, and the judgment is clearer, as yoga breathing is practiced on a regular basis.

Yoga breathing involves a range of deep, slow, rhythmic breaths. If you pay attention to your breath, when you are stressed, it will be irregular, shallow, nervous, and jagged. This happens involuntarily as a response to stress, but this rapid, shallow breathing actually amplifies stress levels.

The result is a vicious cycle that can climax into a panic attack for those with anxiety disorders. Practice controlled breathing, daily, as a stress management technique. This breathing can be done anywhere, at any time.

Breath control, combined with Hatha yoga poses, stretches and strengthens the muscles of the body. Stress often triggers muscle clenching, spasms, and an overall aching discomfort in the body. Poses, such as the mountain pose, supported bridge pose, child's pose, and happy baby pose, are all excellent for relaxation and stress relief.

Depending upon the lesson plan, each session of Hatha yoga can involve from 10 to 70 poses. Yoga instructors often end each class with Sivasana (Corpse Pose). This pose finishes up many classes because of the relaxing properties.

Through regular yoga practice, the body is also better supported, throughout the day, in posture, strength, and flexibility. Yoga relieves fatigue and helps you feel more energized. When a person feels physically stronger and more able, the emotional benefits are extraordinary. It's much easier to go out and face the day and put stress on the "back burner."

© Copyright 2008 - Paul Jerard / Aura Publications

Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500, has written many books on the subject of Yoga. He is a co-owner and the Director of Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. aurawellnesscenter.com aurawellnesscenter.com He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive a Free Yoga e-Book: "Yoga in Practice," and a Free Yoga Newsletter, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html