The word Yoga usually brings to mind a regimen of stretches, breathing exercises and meditation. Comfortable gear, enthusiastic and calming mornings and a good start to the day. Without fail, these things bring about energy, agility, postural ease, confidence and a sense of achievement.
There is more to Yoga, however, and more gains to be had from Yoga than are commonly talked about. One such oft-overlooked aspect is Yogic Relaxation. This is something that not just complements the physical realm, but also has its own set of benefits.
Are we referring to meditation here, or to the sense of calm felt after Pranayama? While these will yield some degree of ease, what we are talking about here are specific Relaxation Techniques in Yoga.
These seemingly simple and `ignorable’ practices can aid greatly in building health by countering present-day stresses. As Dr Hansaji Yogendra, Director, The Yoga Institute, Santacruz, says: “Yogic relaxation techniques help to maintain balance and harmony between the mind and body.”
The Yoga Guru shed some more light on the role of relaxation in Yoga and we share her wisdom below:
Tension Manifests as Disease
When there is any tension in our body, it manifests as diseases. Headaches, nasal blockages, difficulty in breathing, asthma, bronchitis, throat problems, many back problems and all skin problems — these are a result of tension and psychosomatic conditions. Our entire body is full of tension that we are holding on to and can’t let go.
Understand Real Relaxation
We do understand the meaning of relaxation, but what is required is applying it in our life correctly. For example, if I hold someone’s hand and say ‘relax’, would that person understand or be able to relax? Not in the real sense. If the person were to really relax, the hand would become limp and fall! Therefore, the correct understanding of relaxation is important. Relaxation is much more than physical rest. It is an entire outlook, a belief.
Developing a Relaxed Attitude
For it to become an attitude, it should not be just at the body level, but also at the mind level and the intellect. And for this, relaxation must be practised every day. Regular practice of conscious relaxation reduces stress and also contributes to better sleep, improved concentration, increased self-awareness, and a more positive outlook on life.
Why Relaxation Techniques Work
Relaxation techniques activate the ‘Vagus Nerve’ — the main nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system that carries signals from the brain to the heart and intestines etc — and thus, induce a sense of calmness and contentment. Sadhakas are better equipped to handle life’s challenges with a clear and composed mind if they practice regularly. This is because practice encourages the formation of new neural pathways that support stress management and emotional regulation.
Conscious Yogic Relaxation
As a means to unwind and rejuvenate, some yogic relaxation techniques are very useful.
Shavasana involves lying on the back with eyes closed — like a corpse. Shavasana reduces heart rate, blood pressure and cortisol levels. Regular practice of Shavasana can lead to reduced anxiety, enhanced emotional well-being and improved cardiovascular health.
Another pose is Makarasana, which requires one to lie in a prone (on the belly) position that resembles a resting crocodile. This posture induces deep relaxation by calming the mind and promoting diaphragmatic breathing. This activation leads to improved digestion and reduced inflammation. Makarasana is particularly beneficial for those dealing with anxiety, asthma and stress-related disorders.
Nispanda Bhava is a meditative state where one remains completely still, focusing on the sounds around as life goes by. Nispanda Bhava has been associated with helping to ‘let go’.
Real Relaxation Has A Philosophy Backing It
Relaxation happens easily when there is faith. If we believe in something larger that is governing things in a wise way, then it is easier to leave it to that and forget everything. The way some mystics express it is amazing. There was one such mystic in Delhi whose standard expression when any news, good or bad, came in was: “Kamaal ho gaya!” (Something wonderful has happened). He never had any other feeling. Surrender to God or the Higher Power, to Nature, to larger factors. This way, there is a deep philosophy behind relaxation.
This is Part 1 of a series on Yogic Relaxation. Watch out for Part 2 where we will bring you detailed procedures and benefits of each of the relaxation techniques.
The author is a journalist, cancer survivor and certified yoga teacher. She can be reached at [email protected].
