Yoga is known to bring peace of mind, help reduce stress, and also has other benefits. It encourages you to be mindful of your actions and their impact on all living beings, from animals and plants to the natural world. Additionally, yoga inspires you to make choices that support sustainability and protect the environment. In this way, yoga is not just a physical practice but a holistic philosophy that recognises the close connection between your health and the health of the Earth.
Yoga promotes a way of living that is both conscious and caring, a lifestyle that promotes your well-being and also that of the planet. “When you practise yoga with awareness, you not only find balance within but also align with the rhythm of nature,” says Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga expert and Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa.
Here are 5 powerful yoga asanas, suggested by the yoga expert, that support your mental and physical well-being, and also inspire ecological mindfulness:
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- Downward facing dog:
It is a foundational pose that energises the body while grounding the mind. “Adhomukhasvanasana or downward facing dog pose teaches surrender,” says Siddhaa Akshar. “It channels energy downwards, helping you reconnect with the Earth,” he adds.
How to do it: To practise this pose, begin on all fours, tuck your toes under and lift your knees off the ground. Then, straighten your legs as much as possible, aiming to press your heels gently towards the mat. Allow your head to hang freely between your arms, releasing tension in the neck. Hold this position for about 10 seconds while breathing deeply, feeling the body stretch and your connection to the earth deepen.
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- Bridge pose:
It is a heart-opening asana that helps reduce anxiety and improves digestion. “This posture is symbolic of bridging inner peace and outer awareness,” Akshar explains.
How to do it: To perform it, lie flat on your back with your knees bent and feet placed hip-width apart on the floor. Press firmly through your feet to lift your hips towards the ceiling. As you do so, interlace your fingers underneath your back and stretch your arms forward, opening the chest. Breathe calmly and hold this gentle backbend for around 10 seconds, allowing the body to relax and the mind to settle.
- Eagle pose:
It is a balancing posture that improves focus and coordination. “Also called Garudasana, this pose strengthens both concentration and the nervous system,” says Siddha Akshar.
How to do it: “Stand tall and shift your weight onto your left foot. Lift your right thigh over your left and hook your right foot behind the left calf muscle. Cross your arms in front of you, placing the left arm over the right, and bring your palms together. Sink into a slight squat, hinge your hips back as if sitting on a chair, and fix your gaze on a steady point to help maintain balance. Hold the pose, then repeat on the opposite side,” says Siddha Akshar.
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- Shoulder stand:
It is a rejuvenating inversion that soothes the mind and boosts circulation. “This is the queen of asanas. It resets the nervous system and brings clarity.” he says.
How to do it: To practice, lie on your back with your arms by your sides. Engage your core and lift your legs off the floor, using your hands to support your lower back as you raise your hips. Straighten your legs upwards toward the ceiling, pointing your feet. Hold the posture for about 10 seconds, breathing steadily and allowing the nervous system to calm and rejuvenate.
- Tree pose:
It is a balancing posture that symbolises strength and growth. “Just like a tree stands tall through all seasons, this pose fosters resilience and calm,” Sidhaa Akshar shares.
How to do it: Stand upright and lift your right foot to place it on your inner left thigh, avoiding the knee. Bring your palms together in prayer position either at your chest or stretch your arms upwards. Find a steady gaze to help maintain balance and breathe slowly and deeply. Hold for 5 to 8 breaths before switching sides, rooting yourself firmly like a tree grounded to the earth.
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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