Heal your Body and Mind with Yoga
Yoga for Energy
Downward Facing Dog - One yoga’s most popular poses. It’s beginner-friendly and is commonly used as the starting pose in a flow. However, it is also great for awakening the mind. While in downward facing dog your face and body are in an inverted V shape pointed towards the earth. This allows an increase in blood flow to the brain which in turn aids cognitive function, battles uneasiness, and improves temperament. In addition, since one’s body is facing downward it helps blood and lymph fluid flow in the opposite direction ergo taking pressure off the heart.
Yoga for Digestion
Half Moon Pose - The half-moon pose calls for an extension of the torso. This stimulates the organs of the torso, therefore, providing relief from digestive distress.3 For example, this pose can provide relief from constipation and decrease bloat. In order to get the full benefits of this pose try to hold it for 30-60 seconds.
Yoga for Infertility
Extended Side Angle Pose – For those who need some assistance with conceiving the extended side angle pose can be helpful. This pose requires you to twist and invert your body allowing for more circulation and vitality aiming towards one’s pelvic region.4 Some additional benefits of this pose are the strengthening of the legs, knees, ankles, and increases stamina. 5
Yoga for Depression
Supported Headstand – The supported headstand is more of an advanced pose. However, it is a pose worth trying for those with depression who want to work on their mental health. This pose calls for standing on your head in proper alignment which not only strengths the whole body but calms down the brain. 6 Do this pose for a boost of feel-good endorphins
Yoga for Anxiety
Tree Pose – For those who feel anxious and/ or overwhelmed try holding the tree pose for at least 30 seconds. It may seem at first like a common basic yoga balancing pose but, it actually allows one to focus all their attention away from anxious thoughts and place it on the pose. 7 The pose requires perfect balance and concentration. Without it the pose wouldn’t be possible; instead one would tumble and potentially. Therefore, all thoughts need to leave the mind in order to correctly hold the pose.
Overall, there are numerous yoga poses that can benefit your mind, body, and wellness in many ways. Try these poses out for assistance in energy, digestions, infertility, depression, and anxiety issues. For the best results try to practice these poses a few times a week and work on extending the amount of time you hold the pose for.