Stress is a natural response which evolved with us humans to keep us safe and alive. We now have so many less threats in our daily lives, yet stress is one of the biggest health problems that humans face.
Yoga is known as one of the most effective methods of self-regulation; it allows us to recognise symptoms of stress and empower ourselves to choose a new direction. Yoga offers many techniques that have the potential to stop the production of stress hormones and instead move into a state of rest and digest.
Tips to manage your stress this winter:
- Commit to a studio yoga class
Find a teacher and style that resonates with you and book it into your weekly calendar in the same way that you would with an important meeting with work. Even though the calendar can start to fill up during the festive period, make sure that your yoga class is booked in and holds priority, just like that big meeting would. - Reconnect with the power of your breath
Making your exhale longer than your inhale is one of the simplest, most effective ways of allowing your nervous system to settle back into the parasympathetic (rest and digest). You can practice this at any time in any place for as long as you feel able. - Find one restorative yoga posture that you love and take it every day
Restorative yoga is about putting your body into a safe and supported shape where you feel held and able to let go. You can create this at home by using supports such as pillows, blankets, a wall and even your own hands. If you’re not sure what this would look like for you, attend a few classes to discover your own refuge pose.Next month we’ll be sharing a powerful programme carefully designed by Senior Teacher Heather to provide you with a formula of yogic tools including movement, breathwork, rest and meditation that will help to take you to an inner state of feeling grounded, vibrant and peaceful. Find out more about Inner State: Steadiness & Ease for Stress here.