Health benefits of yoga: Best poses to increase mental clarity, cognitive function, blood flow

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining mental clarity and cognitive function is essential for overall well-being. Yoga, a practice that unites the mind, body, and spirit, offers powerful tools for enhancing brain health. By including specific yoga asanas in your daily routine, you can improve focus, concentration, and mental resilience. These postures not only increase blood flow to the brain but also reduce stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of calm and balance. Whether you're looking to boost your cognitive abilities or simply seeking mental peace, these seven yoga poses provide a holistic approach to nurturing your mind, says Kamakshi Talwar, a yoga practitioner and owner of Harmoniq, a wellness brand. (Image: Canva)

Padmasana (Lotus pose): Padmasana, or lotus pose, helps calm the mind by promoting deep relaxation and reducing stress. This seated posture facilitates a meditative state, enhancing concentration and mental clarity. It also helps balance the chakras, particularly the root and crown chakras, which fosters a sense of stability and mental equilibrium. Regular practice supports emotional resilience and a serene mindset. (Image: Canva)

Sarvangasana (Shoulder stand): Sarvangasana, or shoulder stand, improves blood circulation to the brain, which enhances mental clarity and cognitive function. It also stimulates the thyroid gland, which helps regulate hormones that impact mood and energy levels. This inversion pose is known for reducing stress and mild depression by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, fostering relaxation and a calm state of mind. (Image: Canva)

Halasana (Plough pose): Halasana, or Plough pose, calms the nervous system and reduces stress by reversing the body's gravitational effects on the brain. This pose enhances memory and concentration by increasing blood flow to the brain. It also stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation. Regular practice can lead to improved mental clarity and emotional stability, helping to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress. (Image: Canva)

Vrikshasana (Tree pose): Vrikshasana, or Tree pose, enhances focus and concentration by requiring balance and mental coordination. It strengthens the nervous system and improves overall physical and mental balance. The pose also fosters a sense of stability and rootedness, which can reduce anxiety and promote mental clarity. Engaging the core and balancing on one leg, encourages mindfulness and concentration. (Image: Canva)

Paschimottanasana (Seated forward bend): Paschimottanasana, or Seated forward bend, calms the brain and helps reduce stress and anxiety. This forward bend stretches the spine and enhances blood circulation to the brain, improving mental focus and relaxation. It also helps in alleviating mental fatigue by promoting a sense of tranquillity and grounding. Regular practice of this asana can lead to a more balanced and focused mind. (Image: Canva)

Setu bandhasana (Bridge pose): Setu Bandhasana, also known as Bridge pose, reduces anxiety and mild depression by opening the heart chakra and stimulating emotional balance. The pose improves brain function by enhancing blood flow to the brain, which supports mental clarity. It also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and stress relief. Regular practice can lead to improved mood and emotional stability. (Image: Canva)

Shavasana (Corpse pose): Shavasana or Corpse pose, provides profound relaxation for both the mind and body, making it effective for reducing stress and anxiety. By lying still and focussing on the breath, this pose encourages deep mental and physical rest, fostering mindfulness and emotional balance. It helps integrate the benefits of other yoga practices, promoting overall mental well-being and calmness. (Image: Canva)