It makes so much sense to think that Yoga's relaxation techniques would help a person with phobias, and extreme anxiety, cope with his or her irrational fears. Yet, there are reasons why relaxation may fail. Let's take a closer look at the obstacles that may hinder the progress Yogic relaxation can make.
State of Mind: The mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual states of well being are out of balance when we experience constant bouts with irrational fear. Relaxation techniques are another method in Yoga's tool chest for training the mind. For one to relax, proper preparation is the keystone.
A warm bath or shower will help loosen muscle tension. Asanas will also help release tension. This helps relax the body, and the mind will follow. Aromatherapy scents for bringing about states of relaxation, such as vanilla, lavender, chamomile, rose, jasmine, bergamot, and sandalwood are good aromas for soap, oils, or after-bath creams.
If one has a difficult time relaxing, try using any of the above-named scents, during and after, a warm shower or bath. A few restorative Yoga postures will also make a nice addition to change one's state of mind. Relaxing music, at a low volume, might also help. Controlling one's breath (pranayama) is another method that may ease phobias or anxiety. It can be practiced before, during, and after a Yogic relaxation session.
Common Objections: There are many objections people fall back on to prevent a relaxation session. Here are a few: "Can't we just skip this and take medication." "Relaxation won't work on me." "I'm so stressed out; I don't have time for Yoga or relaxation sessions."
Prescribed medication might be a solution, but why volunteer to take a prescription, if you can find a natural solution with no side effects? In some cases, a prescription could be a temporary solution. This is a decision that must be made with the guidance of a medical professional.
If a person believes something will not work - it most likely will fail. Every form of therapy, whether it is scientific, medical, alternative, or natural should fail, if we strongly believe it will not work.
Time: Just saying, "I don't have time to relax," is self-defeating. When I was a teenager, I worked for my grandfather as a roofer. As a young man, it was hard work, but it took a toll on the roofers who were over 50. There are some jobs that require so much physical energy, that every muscle in your body aches from exhaustion.
No matter how taxing your job or life is, you have time to relax. As my wife, Marie, says: "Yogic relaxation and meditation; are like the maraschino cherry on top of a hot fudge sundae." In other words - relaxation and meditation are the most prized techniques that Yoga has to offer. That says a lot - if we consider the many valued aspects of our Yoga practice.
? Copyright 2010 - 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.org/index.html Yoga Teacher Training at: Aura Wellness Center, in Attleboro, MA. He has been a certified Master Yoga Teacher since 1995. To receive Free Yoga videos, Podcasts, e-Books, reports, and articles about Yoga, please visit: yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html yoga-teacher-training.org/index.html
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