By Mudit Dandwate, Co-founder, Dozee
Yoga needs no introduction. The origins of yoga have been speculated to date back to pre-Vedic Indian traditions; possibly around 3000 BCE. It is a group of spiritual, physical, mental practices that originated in India. Asanas are commonly known as the body postures that are steady and comfortable. Practicing some asanas daily also helps bring about flexibility in the body, strength, balance and also helps reduce stress and other conditions related to it. Here are some yoga techniques that can come to one’s rescue during the quarantine amidst the outbreak of the global pandemic COVID-19.
Yoga Nidra
Nidra means “sleep” in Sanskrit. So yoga Nidra means Yogic sleep which is a state between being awake and being asleep, basically “the going to sleep” phase. It is typically only induced by a guided meditation. Yoga Nidra alleges the regulation of hormones, stabilization of glucose levels, and alleviation of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It helps the body to relax and rejuvenate while the mind is inwardly alert, helping you to rejuvenate. Thirty minutes of Yoga Nidra session feels like two hours of a good nap.
Surya Namaskar
Surya namaskar – Salute to the sun is an asana incorporating 12 gracefully strength-oriented asanas.
Surya namaskar is known to be a great cardiovascular workout in the traditional way. It is best advised to do Surya namaskar early morning on an empty stomach. It also helps stimulate the nervous system as a whole alongside making the body flexible and helping stretch the muscles and tone the body.
Pranayam
Pranayama means working in the dimension of prana that is the vital energy needed by our physical and subtle layers, without which the body would perish. A Pranayam thus helps increase your energy levels. Since it stimulates energy levels, it also expands your aura and leads to expanding your spirits to higher levels. While it makes one energetic and enthusiastic, it also makes them calm and composed, thus leading one to make better decisions, having better mental strength when dealing with catastrophes in life.
Anulom Vilom
Anulom Vilom is the breathing in and breathing out of the alternate nostrils. It helps to balance the energies flowing through the nostril resulting in the elimination of toxins and radicals and also helps restore the balance between the two hemispheres of the brain. It also heals the nervous system and brings about peace, tranquility, and calm while strengthening the mind and complete relaxation of the body. It also helps relieve depression, overcome negative thoughts, and pushes you to feel more positive while also improving one’s patience, focus, and concentration.
Sirsasana
Sirsasana is a basic head stand. Sirsasana is done to direct the flow of blood to the organs above the heart, i.e. the perception organs (eyes, nose, ears, taste buds, brains) as these organs have to fight the gravity for the blood to reach them. When doing the sirsasana, your body is in an inverse position, making it easier for the blood to flow.
Sarvangasana
Sarvangasana is a shoulder stand that is usually performed right after sirsasana. It also helps stimulate the flexibility and strength of the shoulders and chest that are to be used when different asanas are introduced. It also revitalizes the throat and neck regions ensuring blood flow to it. Regular performing of this asana may cure headaches and migraines completely.
We are not stuck at home, we are safe at home. This mind-shift can help you reduce anxiety immensely. These yoga techniques additionally will play an important role to help you stay calm, composed, and also stimulate better health so you get out healthier out of this quarantine.
