Yoga is a powerful practice that goes beyond physical exercise, serving as a tool to calm the nervous system, soothe the mind, and reduce stress. According to Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, author and founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, incorporating mindful breathing and steady postures can help restore balance and promote deep relaxation.
He suggests these yoga poses to help you find inner peace and manage stress:
1. Balasana (Child’s Pose)
This gentle pose provides a feeling of security as your head rests on the mat. It stretches the spine, relaxing your back muscles and easing mental pressure. Focusing on slow, rhythmic breathing while in this pose can bring comfort to your mind and create a sense of inner quiet.
2. Viparita Karani (Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose)
Placing your legs up against a wall improves circulation towards the heart, which helps calm the nervous system and reduce fatigue. This simple inversion soothes tired legs and can quiet a racing mind, offering a quick reset for both your body and mental state.
3. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend)
This gentle forward bend encourages introspection and quiet reflection. It stretches the hamstrings and spine while relieving tension in the shoulders and neck. The pose also helps to slow your breath, which in turn supports mental clarity and steadiness, making it especially helpful during stressful times.
As Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar notes, dedicating even just 10 minutes a day to these postures can transform restlessness into peace and improve your emotional resilience.