Tag: yoga

Understanding Mental Health Challenges And Recovery Options by Violet Smith Evans

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Zohr Nemati: Unsplash)

Mental health is an essential part of overall well-being, yet it is often overlooked until symptoms become overwhelming. Millions of people around the world live with mental health conditions that can affect their mood, thoughts, and behavior. These challenges can interfere with relationships, work, and daily routines, but the good news is that treatment options are more accessible and effective today than ever before.

When individuals understand their condition and seek the right support, they can build healthier coping strategies and regain control of their lives. Two common struggles people face are bipolar disorder and anxiety—both of which can be complicated further when substance use is involved. Exploring recovery options designed specifically for these conditions can open the door to long-term healing.

The Importance of Addressing Mental Health Early

Early recognition of mental health symptoms is critical. Too often, individuals dismiss mood swings, prolonged sadness, excessive worry, or fatigue as “just stress” or “a bad week.” However, these patterns can signal a deeper issue that requires professional support. Addressing mental health concerns at the onset not only improves outcomes but can also prevent the development of secondary challenges such as addiction, chronic stress, or physical health problems.

By taking proactive steps, individuals are more likely to develop resilience and maintain stability over time. Family members, friends, and colleagues also play an important role by offering encouragement and understanding instead of judgment or stigma.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels, it goes far beyond the typical ups and downs that people experience in daily life. Those with bipolar disorder may experience manic or hypomanic episodes—periods of high energy, impulsivity, and elevated mood—followed by depressive episodes that bring sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in activities.

Because bipolar disorder exists on a spectrum, its symptoms vary greatly from person to person. This makes individualized care essential. Professional intervention, therapy, and medical management can significantly reduce the intensity and frequency of mood episodes, allowing individuals to lead fulfilling and balanced lives.

For those seeking guidance, comprehensive Bipolar Disorder Treatment programs provide structured support that combines psychotherapy, medication management, and lifestyle strategies to stabilize mood patterns. These programs focus on helping individuals better understand their triggers, strengthen coping mechanisms, and create long-term wellness plans.

The Overlap Between Mental Health and Substance Use

Mental health conditions often coexist with substance use disorders. This dual challenge, known as co-occurring disorders, can complicate both diagnosis and treatment. For example, individuals with bipolar disorder may use drugs or alcohol during manic episodes to maintain their energy or during depressive episodes to numb emotional pain. Similarly, those with anxiety might turn to substances as a form of temporary relief, leading to dependency over time.

The presence of co-occurring disorders makes it critical to find treatment centers that specialize in dual diagnosis. Traditional approaches that treat mental health and substance use separately may fail to address the underlying causes of each condition, resulting in relapse or incomplete recovery. Integrated treatment programs, on the other hand, provide a holistic approach that tackles both issues simultaneously, improving long-term outcomes.

Anxiety and Its Connection to Addiction

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions worldwide. They can manifest as generalized anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, or phobias. For many, constant worry and fear interfere with work performance, social interactions, and even physical health.

When anxiety is left untreated, individuals often look for ways to escape their symptoms. Unfortunately, this can lead to reliance on alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit substances. While these may provide short-term relief, they create long-term consequences and increase the risk of developing addiction.

To break this cycle, specialized anxiety and addiction treatment programs are designed to address both issues together. These programs typically combine evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and medical support to help individuals identify the root causes of their anxiety while also treating their substance use.

(image: Sydney Rae: Unsplash)

Building a Strong Support System

Professional treatment is only one piece of the recovery puzzle. Having a strong support network can make a tremendous difference in maintaining long-term wellness. Family therapy, peer support groups, and community-based programs help individuals stay accountable while fostering connections that reduce isolation.

Loved ones can also benefit from education and counseling, as understanding mental health conditions makes it easier to provide the right kind of support. Encouraging open conversations about mental health challenges helps break down stigma and creates an environment where healing is possible.

Healthy Lifestyle and Daily Habits

Lifestyle changes play a critical role in managing conditions like bipolar disorder and anxiety. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices can all reduce symptom severity. For example, yoga and meditation help regulate stress, while consistent sleep patterns can stabilize mood swings.

Journaling, creative activities, and spending time in nature are additional strategies that promote mental clarity and emotional balance. While these habits may not replace professional care, they work in tandem with treatment to strengthen resilience.

Long-Term Recovery and Hope

Recovery is not a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process that requires commitment, patience, and self-compassion. Relapses or setbacks may occur, but they don’t mean failure. Instead, they can serve as opportunities to re-evaluate strategies and adjust treatment plans.

The growing availability of specialized programs for conditions like bipolar disorder and anxiety shows that no one has to face these challenges alone. With proper care, individuals can achieve stability, rebuild relationships, and pursue meaningful goals.

Final Thoughts

Mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder and anxiety can feel overwhelming, especially when compounded by substance use. However, effective treatment and recovery programs provide hope and healing. By seeking out resources tailored to specific needs, individuals can find balance and create a foundation for lasting well-being. It is important to be lead by a psychiatrist about medication and treatment when someone also has substance abuse.

No matter how challenging the journey may seem, recovery is always possible. Support, understanding, and professional guidance are the keys to moving forward and embracing a healthier, more fulfilling future.

This blog contains sponsored links.

Healing The Mind And Body Through Supportive Recovery Practices by Isla Salt

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Yannic Laderach, Unsplash)

Recovery from addiction is a deeply personal and often challenging journey. Each individual faces unique struggles, yet a common thread binds everyone together—the need for healing that nurtures both the body and the mind. Traditional treatments like medical detox and counselling are essential, but recovery extends beyond them. To truly sustain sobriety, many people benefit from incorporating supportive practices that promote physical wellness, emotional balance, and meaningful social connections.

Holistic recovery approaches focus on treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms of substance use disorder. This means addressing the emotional, mental, physical, and even spiritual aspects of health. Within this framework, two practices stand out for their effectiveness and accessibility: yoga as a healing tool and group therapy as a platform for connection and accountability. Together, these methods create a powerful balance, helping individuals not only manage cravings and triggers but also build resilience and long-term stability.

Understanding the Need for Holistic Healing

Addiction impacts far more than just the body. While substances can cause direct harm to organs and brain function, the cycle of dependency often disrupts emotional health and weakens relationships. Recovery programs that focus exclusively on physical detoxification may overlook the importance of mental clarity, emotional regulation, and social support—elements that are equally important in building a healthy life.

Supportive recovery practices go hand in hand with evidence-based therapies to address these needs. By combining structured treatments with holistic methods, people in recovery gain tools to manage stress, regulate emotions, and connect with others who understand their struggles. This integration often leads to improved outcomes and a reduced risk of relapse.

Yoga as a Pathway to Recovery

One of the most effective practices in holistic recovery is yoga for addiction recovery. Yoga provides more than just physical exercise; it is a discipline that strengthens the body, calms the mind, and fosters inner awareness. For people in recovery, yoga offers a constructive way to process emotions, cope with stress, and rebuild confidence.The benefits of yoga extend into multiple dimensions of healing:

  • Physical strength and resilience: Addiction often leaves the body weakened. Yoga helps restore energy, balance, and flexibility, giving individuals a sense of vitality.
  • Mental clarity: Breathwork and meditation in yoga reduce anxiety and improve focus, making it easier to navigate triggers and cravings.
  • Emotional regulation: Yoga encourages mindfulness, helping individuals respond to stress rather than react impulsively.
  • Spiritual connection: For many, yoga fosters a sense of purpose and inner peace, providing a meaningful counterbalance to past struggles.

Practicing yoga in recovery also creates structure and routine, both of which are essential for maintaining sobriety. Whether practiced individually or in a group setting, yoga can become a safe space to reconnect with oneself and rediscover a healthier way of living.

(image: Unsplash: Helena Lopes)

The Role of Community in Recovery

While practices like yoga are powerful for personal healing, recovery is not meant to be a solitary process. Addiction thrives in isolation, and overcoming it requires connection, support, and accountability. This is where community-based approaches such as group therapy play a vital role.

Human beings are social by nature, and support networks are key to emotional resilience. In group settings, individuals can share their stories, listen to others, and gain reassurance that they are not alone in their struggles. This shared experience often reduces shame and fosters empathy, which are critical for long-term healing.

Group Therapy as a Cornerstone of Support

Group therapy for substance abuse provides a safe and structured environment where individuals can open up about their experiences. Guided by a trained therapist, group sessions encourage honesty, accountability, and peer support. Unlike individual therapy, which focuses on one person’s journey, group therapy highlights the power of collective healing. Key benefits of group therapy include:

  • Shared understanding: Listening to others with similar struggles helps normalize feelings and experiences.
  • Accountability: Members often motivate each other to stay on track and celebrate progress.
  • Skill-building: Sessions may teach coping strategies, communication skills, and relapse prevention tools.
  • Hope and inspiration: Seeing others succeed in recovery can inspire confidence and determination.

Group therapy also helps individuals rebuild social skills that may have eroded during addiction. By practicing healthy communication and learning to trust again, participants strengthen the foundations of meaningful relationships outside the therapy room.

Balancing Individual and Collective Healing

The combination of yoga and group therapy illustrates how both individual and collective healing practices can work hand in hand. Yoga allows individuals to reconnect with themselves, build strength, and find calm in the face of challenges. Group therapy provides the encouragement and accountability that comes from shared experiences. Together, these practices address both the internal and external dimensions of recovery.

For many, the integration of body-focused and community-based approaches creates a balanced recovery journey. It ensures that healing is not only about overcoming physical dependence but also about cultivating emotional stability and social connection.

The Long-Term Impact of Supportive Practices

Recovery is not a short-term process—it is a lifelong commitment. Supportive practices like yoga and group therapy provide tools that individuals can carry with them long after formal treatment has ended. These practices foster resilience, helping individuals manage stress, cope with setbacks, and continue growing on their path to wellness.

Some people incorporate yoga as part of their daily routine, using it as a grounding practice. Others rely on ongoing group sessions or peer support communities to maintain accountability. The beauty of supportive recovery practices is their adaptability—they can evolve with a person’s needs and provide consistent strength throughout life.

Creating a Sustainable Recovery Lifestyle

The journey to sobriety is about much more than simply avoiding substances. It is about creating a lifestyle that supports health, purpose, and connection. A sustainable recovery lifestyle often includes:

  • Regular physical activity, such as yoga or other mindful exercises.
  • Participation in therapy or peer support groups.
  • Healthy nutrition and sleep habits.
  • Engagement in meaningful work, hobbies, or service.
  • Building strong, supportive relationships.

When individuals embrace both holistic and therapeutic practices, they are better equipped to live fulfilling lives beyond addiction.

Final Thoughts

Healing from addiction requires more than detoxification or medication—it requires a comprehensive approach that nurtures the mind, body, and spirit. Practices like yoga provide personal healing and inner balance, while group therapy fosters community, accountability, and shared growth. Together, they create a powerful foundation for lasting recovery.

By embracing supportive recovery practices, individuals not only overcome addiction but also rediscover the strength, resilience, and joy needed to build a healthier and more purposeful life.

This blog contains sponsored links.

Meditation 101: Everything You Need To Know by Miranda Spears.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

Photo from Unsplash

Embarking on the journey of meditation is akin to entering a profound realm of self-discovery and tranquility. This ancient practice, deeply woven into the fabric of various cultures and spiritual traditions, offers a transformative pathway to inner peace and mindfulness. In this exploration of meditation, you can delve into its fundamental principles and techniques. You may also learn about the many benefits it brings. If you are eager to embark on this contemplative journey, there is much to be gained.

Understanding the Essence of Meditation

Meditation, at its core, is a mental exercise designed to heighten awareness and cultivate a tranquil state of mind. In a world filled with incessant noise and distractions, meditation serves as a sanctuary. This is a space that is meant to silence the ceaseless chatter of the mind. Through various techniques such as focused breathing, guided visualisation, or mindful observation, individuals aim to create a profound sense of calm and presence in the current moment. There’s a reason why meditation has been a part of the human experience since as far back as 5000 BCE.

Getting Started on Your Meditation Journey

Begin by finding a quiet and comfortable space where you can sit or lie down without distractions. Creating an environment that allows you to immerse yourself in the practice is foundational. Once settled, turn your attention inward, focusing on your breath—an elemental meditation technique. Inhale deeply, feeling the air fill your lungs, and then exhale slowly, consciously releasing tension. Alternatively, engage in mindful observation by letting thoughts come and go without attachment, cultivating a non-judgmental awareness of the present moment. Don’t be surprised if a surge of energy during meditation happens — and don’t judge it if it does.

Various Types of Meditation

Meditation is a diverse tapestry, offering various techniques catering to different preferences and goals. Mindfulness meditation encourages being fully present, urging individuals to observe thoughts and sensations without attachment. Transcendental meditation involves repeating a mantra silently, guiding practitioners toward a state of relaxed awareness. Loving-kindness meditation centers around cultivating feelings of love and compassion, often achieved through the repetition of positive phrases. Body scan meditation encourages a mental exploration of the body, identifying and releasing tension to promote both physical and mental relaxation.

Benefits of Meditation

The benefits of meditation are extensive and well-documented, making it a compelling practice for those seeking holistic well-being. Stress reduction stands as one of its primary advantages, with regular practice promoting relaxation and heightened mindfulness. Improved concentration becomes a natural outcome, as meditation serves as a training ground for the mind, enhancing cognitive function and focus. Emotional well-being experiences a positive shift, marked by reduced anxiety, a more optimistic outlook, and increased emotional resilience. The calming effect of meditation often extends to sleep, contributing to improved sleep quality and overall restorative rest.

Challenges on the Meditation Path

While the benefits of meditation are profound, the journey is not without its challenges. Patience becomes a valuable companion, recognizing that meditation is a skill that matures over time. Developing a consistent practice is equally crucial; establishing a routine, even if just for a few minutes each day, allows individuals to experience benefits. Encouraging experimentation with different techniques acknowledges the uniqueness of each individual, encouraging them to discover approaches that resonate with their personal preferences. Incorporating meditation into daily life is a transformative process, one that extends beyond formal sessions. Integrating mindfulness into routine activities, such as mindful eating or walking, becomes a practical and enriching way to extend the benefits beyond the confines of just one daily meditation session.

Final Thoughts on a Transformational Process

Practicing meditation will unlock a special door to the realm of self-discovery and serenity. As one navigates the principles, techniques, and benefits, it becomes evident that the true beauty of meditation lies not solely in reaching a destination but in embracing the ongoing journey toward self-awareness and inner peace. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned practitioner, the path of meditation invites you to explore the depths of your own consciousness and find solace in the stillness of the present moment.

This article was written by writer Miranda Spears.

Yoga And Fitness: A Holistic Approach to Total Body Wellness by Sean Lynam.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Pexels)

Approximately 300 million people worldwide practice yoga every day, and the numbers are only increasing. This is because awareness of the benefits of yoga is growing. The most popular topic on Instagram in the UK during the lockdown was yoga, followed by health (as the second topic of interest). Yoga is gaining traction as a holistic approach to total body wellness and fitness. 

About Yoga

Yoga has its origins in India, with its first mention being in an ancient sacred text Rig Veda. The world embraced this graceful fitness approach with open arms. Of course, it underwent some adaptations as this practice crossed countries. However, its essence remains the same, regardless of where and how it is practiced. Yoga focuses on breathing, balance, and flexibility. It comprises mental, physical, and spiritual practices. The most important components of yoga are the postures and the breathing work. There are approximately 19 different types of yoga and around 66 basic postures.

Yoga for Total Body Wellness

Many scientific studies support the claims about the benefits of yoga, so you can rest assured that it is not just hype. Some of the ways in which yoga can help in conditioning the mind and body are highlighted below:

Physical Benefits of Yoga

Yoga improves blood flow, which leads to increased oxygen supply to the brain and organs. This promotes cell growth and muscle recovery. If you are recovering from any disease or injury, yoga can accelerate the process for you. Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise, so you don’t have to worry about it aggravating any existing issues. Just select the poses that are most suitable for your fitness level and health condition. 

There may be no other approaches as well-rounded and effective as yoga for bodybuilding. Yoga can supplement all other bodybuilding efforts as it substantially improves mobility, increases muscle strength, and enhances balance. Low-intensity or restorative yoga is great as an active recovery workout; it reduces muscle soreness and speeds up recovery. 

Yoga is also effective as an adjunct treatment for chronic conditions like lower back pain, arthritis, and diabetes. Yoga also helps lower cholesterol and and blood pressure, and can therefore work wonders for your heart. Regular yoga practice can improve immune function and help combat diseases. 

Beneficial Effects of Yoga on Psychology

Typically, there are no mirrors in yoga studios. This is to prevent people from getting distracted by the way their body looks during a pose. Yoga encourages a person to look inwards and connect with oneself better. Surveys have found that people who practice yoga have a better body image and are less likely to be overly critical of themselves. Yoga also encourages one to be mindful of their eating habits. Mindful eating and a positive body image can help people with eating disorders. Health professionals are now supportive of yoga as a tool for long-term recovery from eating disorders. Yoga therapy also serves as a treatment for depression. Regular yoga can increase mental clarity, improve focus, relieve stress, relax the mind, and boost general mental health. 

It is only possible to recover and achieve total body wellness when physical fitness is supported and supplemented by mental health. Yoga has beneficial effects on the mind as well as the body and is therefore highly suitable as a holistic approach to total body wellness. Pre-workout supplements could help boost the effects of yoga, such as an increase in blood flow and a rise in endurance levels. 

Time to Get the Yoga Mat 

Yoga is better understood when experienced. Don’t take anyone’s word for it; rather, try it yourself. After your first yoga session, there is a high possibility that you will return for more. You will find yourself making healthier lifestyle choices. With yoga, you can engineer your inner self and your body, to bring out your best version. 

Author Bio:

Sean Lynam

Sean is a fitness enthusiast and personal trainer by profession, and a freelance writer by passion. Sean writes and shares his knowledge for a range of fitness publications and nutrition brands.

Using Yoga to Improve Productivity when Working from Home: by Daisy Moss

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments
(image: Unsplash)

Life can often be overwhelming, especially when working from home. Dealing with work deadlines, disagreements, constant emails and stressful situations is difficult enough, but trying to process those issues in your home environment can be confusing and difficult. It is likely that you are lacking motivation and potentially feeling anxious after working at home for months on end which will be impacting your productivity.

If you are in need of a serious boost, set aside some time each day and unwind by practicing yoga. We’re going to discuss how yoga can help you to overcome anxious, stressed and overwhelmed feelings in order to significantly improve your productivity when working from home, as well as talking about a few other tips that will ensure you are getting the most out of the time you spend doing yoga. 


Overcoming Barriers

Yoga has endless benefits for our mind and body, firstly being it can substantially reduce stress and anxiety. Practicing yoga regularly can really help to clear the mind of negative thoughts and enable you to focus throughout the day, helping you to be productive when you need it most.

Yoga can also help you to sleep much better, giving your mind the time it needs to rest and recover to function as productively as possible the next day. As well as this, yoga can improve your overall well being and confidence, helping you to have faith in yourself when working on overcoming negative thoughts or stressful situations.

Finally, and most importantly, yoga boosts our happiness, which will do wonders for both your productivity as well as your general wellbeing. All of these fantastic benefits that help to reduce negative feelings simultaneously help us to become more productive. 

Fitting Yoga Into Your Routine

Working and living in the same space can be testing, but setting aside even 10 minutes to practice yoga in the morning can help to completely clear your head space ready for a productive day ahead. Alternatively, doing yoga in the evening can help you to unwind and truly relax when your body needs it most, helping you to be more productive the following day. If you struggle to maintain focus throughout the day, why not try setting aside 10 minutes of your lunch break to clear your headspace.

You will eventually workout the time that works best for you, whether you can spare 10 minutes or an hour. Something that works well for many people is completing shorter sessions throughout the week and then spending around an hour at the weekends in order to improve your strength and ability to fully relax, which will in turn help you to make the most of your weekday sessions.

The best thing is the only equipment you need is a small space and a yoga mat if possible, so you can do it anywhere, anytime!

Pair With a Healthy Diet

To maximise the benefits of your practice, having a healthy diet is important. Consuming a variety of different fruit and veg, plenty of protein to support muscle recovery, and foods that help with joint pain or stiffness such as fatty fish, will all help you to make the most of your yoga experience

Integrating turmeric into your cooking is also a great option, as it has been used in Chinese Medicine for centuries to help with all kinds of health problems such as reducing inflammation and helping muscle recovery. In terms of vitamins and minerals, magnesium supplements have multiple benefits such as regulating the nervous system, supporting muscles and helping to convert food into energy. The last point is particularly important for those struggling with a lack of productivity, as you will find you have that extra bit of energy needed to get you through the day, as well as the strength to help you get the most out of yoga. 

Summary

Overall, yoga has endless amounts of benefits that can completely change how you work and alter your outlook on life. All of these benefits help you to become happier and more productive, enabling you to prosper in every aspect of your life.

Many people are sceptical of yoga before practicing it themselves, but if you are in need of an intervention then give it a go. You potentially have so much to gain, and nothing to lose! 

This article was written by freelance writer Daisy Moss.

How to Protect Your Mental Health During the Pandemic: by Mary Davis

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

hydrangea

These days of the coronavirus pandemic are filled with anxiety and fear unlike anything else we and the world has experienced since World War II. It’s important to stay in tune with yourself and remember it is okay to not feel totally well and to be feeling more anxious. 

Here are some ideas to help your mental health during the pandemic: 

 

Get moving

You’d be surprised what physical activity does for you, both in terms of physical health and mental health! In terms of mental health in particular, it can help decrease anxiety and improve moods. While gyms and studio classes are closed and it is easier than ever to get an effective exercise in with guided tech at home, now is a great time to become familiar with fitness apps. There are many different ones to choose from: you could try the 30 day fitness challenge app for example to get into a new routine and find the perfect guided workouts work for you! Whether its workouts, barre, or even taking the stairs more, try to move as much as you can. 


Try meditating, mindfulness or prayer

Finding stress management techniques that resonate with you is crucial as stress is an inevitable part of life. The ideal time to start up a mindfulness practice is when times are good so that you have established a practice in times of stress, but it can still be incredibly powerful if you are starting out now!

Just remember to be patient with yourself. There are a lot of practices out there, such as meditation, mindfulness, and prayer, so you have options. If you are unsure of where to start, start with daily deep breathing exercises. 


Avoid alcohol 

Avoid or at least monitor alcohol intake in times of high stress in order to protect your mental health. Alcohol is often used to ‘self-medicate’, but while it can release endorphins in your body, it is classified as a depressant. It significantly impacts your central nervous system, and in times of stress you want to be in tune with your body and paying extra care to your nervous system rather than confusing it. 


Seek a therapist and do appointments via Skype or Zoom

Seeking help is a sign of strength! If you need help or need professional support as you work through stress and/or anxiety, seek a therapist. Many therapists do appointments via Skype or Zoom and if you find one in your area, you can transition to in-person appointments when possible. 


Practise self care

Self care looks different for everyone, and finding what makes you feel good and content is so important. Try cooking, at-home facials, taking extra time on your skincare and giving yourself a face massage, baths with Epsom salts, and quality sleep. 

 

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(image: Samantha Carbon)

 

All of these things can contribute to healthy living and can help us get through the pandemic. They are also great habits to incorporate into your lifestyle to continue caring for your body and mind. 

This guest blog was written by freelance writer, Mary Davis.

The Mental Health Benefits of Yoga: Guest post by Manmohan Singh

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

yoga1

(image: https://www.gaia.com/series/yoga-every-day)

Mental illness is like any other illness in the body. With Yoga, it can be treated and helped to heal. Yoga encourages mental fitness and healing of the mind.

Living in a modernised world, many of us still have conformist ideologies. Mental illness  is misinterpreted. It is often a deep-rooted issue, which, if not helped, can become life-threatening. Day-to-day stresses and heartbreak can lead to depression and other mental illness. If the condition becomes severe, it can lead to self-destructive tendencies, including self harm.

There are many ways (meditation, therapies, etc.) to prevent and help mental illness, with yoga being one of the most natural and safe options. According to many studies, it is confirmed that Yoga has the ability to relieve stress and anxiety and reduce mild depression and other mental illnesses.

So, let’s see the amazing mental health benefits of Yoga:

 

Calms The Nervous System

Yoga has the power to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety levels. It makes you enter into a more relaxed state, and gradually, you move from flight or fight-to rest and digest mode (or move from the sympathetic nervous system to parasympathetic nervous system). Yoga reduces stress, anxiety, depression, treats insomnia, and other kinds of health issues.

Makes You Self-Aware

Yoga practice helps to ignite the sense of Self. Through yoga, you know yourself better and form a deeper connection from within. Yoga helps build self-trust, increases self-awareness that helps in making healthier choices- like eating healthier, living the right lifestyle. You learn to accept yourself, develop stronger willpower, bring your consciousness back to the present, feel more confident, and gradually realise your self-worth.

Helps Mend  Relationships

Emotions and feelings contribute a lot towards ones mental health. A traumatising incident, heartbreak, death of loved ones, and many other day-to-day relationship struggles, can affect our mind and lead to mental illness.

Yoga ignites awareness and not only helps us improve our relationship with the Self but with others as well. When you form a positive relationship with the Self, you tend to deal with others in the same manner. A healthy relationship helps to maintain the overall mental well-being as well.

Reduces Inflammation Related To Genes

According to a study, it is proven that 15 minutes of yoga practice or relaxation techniques switches off the genes that are responsive to stress and inflammation. With the modern world, stress is something that is often found. This stress leads to various mental health conditions. Our body is designed in a manner that it has the ability to reduce stress and this mechanism is called the ‘relaxation response’. With yoga relaxation techniques, you can easily trigger the stress reduction ability.

Yoga practice is the best way to fire your body’s built-in mechanism that helps mental relaxation. 15-20 minutes of yoga practice triggers the biochemical changes in the brain cells and protects from stress and anxiety.

Yoga Boosts GABA Level

Our brain is filled with receptors and GABA or GABA receptors or gamma-aminobutyric acid is linked with anxiety and mood disorders. When the brain drops the GABA activity, the mood of a person becomes lower and they start feeling more anxious.  

With the help of yoga practice, you can boost the GABA level. Practice yoga for an hour daily to get positive results.

Reduces The Effect Of Traumatic Incidents

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD is a serious issue that people face after going through a traumatising or negative situation, shocking or terrifying experiences. People in this condition frequently experience flashbacks and nightmares of the situation they have had come across. With yoga, a person can help himself come out from the situation and help the mind.

Improves Concentration And Boosts Memory

Sometimes, our brain finds it difficult to do or concentrate on the day-to-day tasks. Yoga practice has proven effective in boosting memory and improving concentration and also clears the mind and calms the senses.

Prevents Mental Health Disorders At Every Age

A mental health condition can occur at any age depending on the situation you are in or what you’re going through. According to a study, people of age group 18-35 are at high risk of mental illness and have periods of severe stress.

These issues can also occur during adolescence, due to various reasons, including genetics but also envrionmental- family disputes, fights, peer pressure, body shaming, academics etc. Teenagers also go through many physical, mental and emotional changes.

Yoga practice helps elevate the mood, reduce stress and anxiety, prevent depression, control anger, and ignites mindfulness.

People as they get older can also face these mental health issues due to loneliness, change of the environment, alcohol abuse, dementia, loss of loved one, long-term illness, physical disability, poor diet, etc., Yoga can be beneficial to health.

Yoga Asanas To Practice For Mental Health- Balasana, Viparita Karani Asana, Uttanasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, Bhujangasana, and Shavasana. Also practice Pranayama like: Kapalbhati, Anulom Vilom and Bhramari.

It is rightly said that a healthy mind breeds a healthy body, and vice-versa. It is important to have good, positive mental health for complete fitness and healthy, happy living.

Practising yoga promotes better health, try it today!

 

 

Author Bio: Manmohan Singh is a passionate Yogi, Yoga Teacher and a Traveller in India. He provides Yoga Teacher Training in Rishikesh, India. He loves writing and reading the books related to yoga, health, nature and the Himalayas.

Website: https://www.rishikulyogshala.org/

7 reasons why 30 days of Yoga enhances your lifestyle by Meera Watts

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

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You are probably fully aware of how beneficial yoga is for your mind and body. When you commit to it for 30 days, you will really begin to feel those benefits.

A practice like this is known as sadhana in Sanskrit, which means “dedicated practice.” You will definitely become more flexible and release tension on a daily basis.

The benefits go much deeper than this though. All aspects of your life will improve. You will mentally feel better about yourself just for the effort of getting on the mat every day. When you feel good about yourself and take action for your own self-care, life will get better for it.

Here are 7 reasons why 30 days of yoga will enhance your lifestyle.

1. You are More Able to Relax

When you’re able to relax, you can enjoy little moments in life far better. Yoga has been proven to reduce levels of cortisol by relaxing the central nervous system. Poses, or asanas, in yoga, will help relax all the tension in your body. You begin to regulate your heartbeat when you do yoga daily. This helps you to deal with stress far better as well.

If you have problems with sleeping because your mind won’t shut down, yoga can be beneficial for this as well. Chronic insomniacs have been able to break the cycle of sleepless nights from starting a daily yoga regime.

It helps to calm the mind and body. You might even want to do a few relaxing poses before going to bed.

2. You Feel Better About Yourself

It’s easier on your body to do yoga for 30 days straight as opposed to weight training or other intense exercises. It might be hard at first but the progress you make in the practice will improve how you feel about yourself.

Whatever your reasons are for going through a 30-day yoga practice, you will get a sense of purpose. This sense of purpose will make you feel good about yourself. Being dedicated to something and sticking to it can create a habit of commitment within you. You will have a greater sense of trust in yourself as well.

It starts with 30 days of yoga but you’ll likely move onto do more yoga or other types of physical activity. Doing something active daily is good for the mind and the body. Once you get into the habit, you’ll always want to improve.

3. Your Body Will Become Stronger

Although yoga wouldn’t be considered a direct way to lose weight, it actually can. You don’t burn a lot of calories but you do gain more muscle. Muscle eats fat so it is an indirect way to improve the body.

Doing yoga for a while 30 days will help your metabolism so you’ll burn fat more easily. Your weight will normalize through yoga because it restores hormonal imbalances. You also become more mentally stable when something arises and you feel stressed.

You’ll hopefully be able to manage the ebbs and flows of life because you’re more centered.

4. Better Posture

As you’ll be doing yoga for 30 days straight, you’ll be able to properly counteract bad posture. This will be a noticeable improvement.

As you stand in Mountain Pose, you’ll be pulling your shoulders back which will probably feel uncomfortable for a few days. As you continue with your practice, you’ll notice that it’s easier to stand with your shoulders back.

You’ll be focusing on your posture and how your body is functioning, which will help you focus on it while you’re off the mat. Many of the poses stretch out the areas of the shoulders and back that are compromised from slouching.

5. Mindfulness Makes You More Conscious

You may not realise all of the things in your life that you’re grateful for. Most of us just live every day and don’t really think about we have. We think about what we don’t have, what we want, and other things.

Mindfulness is a large part of the full yoga picture. It is where we let go of the ego mind, which is that inner chatter you’re hearing all the time. When you’re present in the moment of now, there can be no depressive or anxious upsets.

This allows you to open up to what is happening for you right now. When you’re more conscious, it’s easy to appreciate moments, you are more easily grateful for what you have. You become happier and more at peace.

Also, you’re not missing out on your life. It’s unravelling in front of you and you are there with it. The conscious thought brings a great deal of fulfillment into your life while eradicating self-critical, worrying thoughts.

6. You’ll Become Better at Breathing

Breathing is important for the health of your physical and mental state. When you get anxious, you will experience a shallow breath. This makes you feel more anxious. If you can learn how to breathe deeply into your lungs, you can calm yourself down instantly.

During yoga, you will probably feel very relaxed so you can safely hone those deep breathing skills. Then in times when you need it, you will be able to automatically breathe into your belly.

7. You’ll Be Able to Focus Better

Yoga sends a lot of oxygen to the brain, which helps to promote mental functioning. In addition, the lack of anxiety allows you to think more clearly. This can help you in your work life with productivity or in running a household.

When you’ve completed your 30 days of yoga, you will know that your life has changed. You have trained the mind and body to work in the most optimal way. You will see the benefits that manifest into your outside life and how it enhances the lifestyle you’re living. You’ll be fit and feel generally happier. Yoga can teach us a lot and you will understand this when you commit to the practice.

Meera Watts is a yoga teacher, entrepreneur, and mom. Her writing on yoga and holistic health has appeared in Elephant Journal, CureJoy, FunTimesGuide, OMtimes, and others. She’s also the founder and owner of Siddhi Yoga.

Website:  https://www.siddhiyoga.com/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/siddhiyogaacademy

Instagram: https://instagram.com/siddhiyogainternational

Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/siddhiyogainter

Twitter: https://twitter.com/meerawatts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meerawatts

FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/siddhiyogateachertraining

 

29- On Birthdays and Positivity

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 4 Comments

29

This weekend I turned 29! As many of you will have read, it had been a very hard week leading up to my birthday due to panic attacks so I was pleased to be able to celebrate with my boyfriend, friends and family- who came to stay, joined my birthday dinner/s, went for birthday gatherings at friends and family (including cake!) and really just enjoyed myself. It was lovely opening cards and presents and feeling loved.

The past year has been a big milestone for me in so many positive ways- new relationship, new job, new friends and time with old friends, volunteering,  writing and blogging, travelling and seeing lots of theatre shows . I am hoping the year ahead will be happy and healthy and full of good things. (and as I keep being reminded, I’m now in my 30th year eek!

This week I have been able to go in to work and been managing my anxiety through doing yoga meditation and getting extra support from loved ones and wonderful colleagues.

Heres to the next year ahead!