Want to strengthen your mind? Try these 5 yoga asanas
Our hectic work schedules, unhealthy lifestyles, and elevated stress and anxiety levels often take a toll on our mental health. While it all may seem overwhelming, yoga can address most of these issues. There are several yoga asanas (poses) that calm the mind, enhance blood flow, and increase your balance, improving the overall brain function. Here are five yoga asanas (poses) that can help.
'Setu Bandha Sarvangasana' (bridge pose)
Lie down on your back with your arms next to your body and palms facing down. Now, bend your knees and place your feet on the floor. Taking the support of your shoulders, arms, and feet, lift your back off the floor. Keep breathing slowly and deeply. Maintain the posture for one minute. Relax, then repeat. This helps relax your brain and nervous system.
'Sarvangasana' (shoulder stand)
Lie down straight on your back with your feet clung together. Now, slowly lift your legs upward to form a 90-degree angle with your body. You may support your back with your palms by bending your elbows on the mat. This pose helps strengthen your mind and body, enhancing physical flexibility and stabilizing your nervous system.
'Halasana' (plow pose)
From the shoulder stand position, bend your hips to bring your toes to the floor. Clasp your hands together and stretch out your forearms behind your back. Hold the position for as long as it is comfortable for you. Relax, and then repeat. This will help improve blood flow to the brain, calm your nervous system, and fight stress and fatigue.
'Vajrasana' (diamond pose)
Sit flat on the floor or on a mat with your thighs placed over your calf muscles. Stay in the position for a couple of minutes and focus on your natural breathing rhythm. This simple pose calms the mind, improves digestion, and enhances blood circulation. The Vajrasana can be performed right after having a meal.
'Shavasana' (corpse pose)
Lie down straight on your back. Your arms should be freely opened on both sides, with the palms facing upward. Relax and maintain the position for some minutes. Perform a few repetitions. A simple pose, the Shavasana helps combat stress, anxiety, and depression. It is known to help calm both your mind and body.
