What was known to the Indians from times bygone is now popularly and widely known across the world as yoga. This ancient Indian tradition has now captivated the global masses, having people from every corner of the world practicing them. Everyone today suffers some sort of stress or the other. In the wake of such a situation find freedom from Mental Stress with yoga.

Yoga for Stress Relief

Yoga every morning and last thing at night is definitely beneficial, however, a little bit of it during the course of the day does no harm to anybody. It actually helps to alleviate stress. Even studies have revealed that yoga improves the mood, helps individuals to focus on the present and is an effective stress buster.

Also read Yoga, Breathing Exercises and Meditation Techniques – All Good Stress Busters

Yoga Techniques for Stress Relief

Yoga advocates many different techniques for stress relief. They give numerous benefits. Here we will walk through some of the most important yoga techniques for stress relief.

Pranayam or Breathing Techniques

Breathing exercises as per yoga are known as pranayam. They help individuals to relax, control breathing and breathe deeply. This reduces the stress and storm going on in the mind and eventually aids in calming the body and mind. They even enhance the quality of sleep which in turn increases mindfulness. These exercises can be done while the yoga session is on or they can also be carried out any time of the day whenever the need arises. They are most effective when the emotions are at unrest or someone is trapped in a difficult situation. Here is a list of the most popular pranayam techniques:

•         Alternate nostril breathing
•         Ujjayi breathing
•         Breath of fire
•         Lion’s breath
•         Sitali breath
•         Humming bee breath

Yoga Poses for Stress Relief

Apart from the breathing techniques followed by yoga, there are certain poses that can help to calm and relieve the unrestful mind. The poses are as mentioned below:

• Child’s pose or balasana – It helps to restore the energy and create an inward focus. Balasana also gives and supports mental and physical rejuvenation and relaxation.
• Legs-up-the-wall or Viparita karani – It helps in getting deep relaxation for the mind while it also boosts the lymphatic flow and circulation.
• Corpse pose or savasana – It is a pose which focuses on deep breathing and calming of the mind. This eases out the tension from the mind.

Yoga Meditation for Stress Relief

Meditation can be a part of the yoga routine or it can be done on its own. The best positions for meditation can be sitting on a chair or on the floor, standing, walking or even the lying-down position. Whichever meditation position is chosen should be practiced regularly for some time at a stretch for effective results. Regular change in positions is not advisable. The sleeping meditation position helps to relax deeply, release the stress and aids in better sleep. This is the best position for a tired body. However, the best meditative techniques should be arrived at after consultation with experts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be said that yoga poses, meditation and breathing techniques are the best possible ways to alleviate stress using yogic means. They not only reduce stress but also restock and renew energy that contributes to the overall well-being of a person.