PTSD relief: Here’s how yoga can help deal with stress, lack of sleep and more

Regular yoga practice has been shown to decrease the frequency and intensity of traumatic memories and flashbacks (Image: Canva)

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Recurrent nightmares, disturbing memories, and an overwhelming sense of anxiety can make daily life difficult if you suffer from PTSD, as the struggle to find peace and normalcy can be relentless.

The common causes of PTSD include military combat, natural disasters, serious accidents, or violent personal assaults. Symptoms range from severe anxiety and flashbacks to uncontrollable thoughts about the event. These symptoms can be debilitating, thus impacting your ability to function in daily life. The condition arises from a complex interplay of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors, with the brain’s response to stress and trauma playing a vital role.

However, through practising yoga, a combination of physical postures, breath control, and meditation, you can significantly heal and manage PTSD.

Here are seven reasons, according to Amrutha Vinod, yoga instructor at Sukoon Health, why yoga can be a therapeutic tool for those dealing with PTSD:

Reduces stress and anxiety: Yoga regulates the autonomic nervous system, shifting the body from the fight-or-flight response to the rest-and-digest mode. This physiological change promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety levels, thus providing much-needed relief.

Promotes mindfulness: Yoga emphasises on mindfulness and present-moment awareness, which can be particularly beneficial for those with PTSD. By focusing on the present, people can better manage their emotions and stay grounded. It also helps to reduce the impact of traumatic memories.

Improves concentration: Better concentration skills can be developed through regular yoga practice. It helps to combat PTSD-related distractibility. This further boosts focus, and can enhance productivity and daily functioning, making it easier to manage everyday tasks.

Reduces traumatic memories: Regular yoga practice has been shown to decrease the frequency and intensity of traumatic memories and flashbacks. It provides significant relief from these distressing symptoms of PTSD.

Boosts sleep quality: Yoga reduces insomnia and other sleep disturbances common in PTSD. Through physical postures (asanas) and controlled breathing techniques (pranayama), yoga promotes relaxation and improves sleep quality.

Improves physical health:  The physical aspects of yoga, including strength-building postures and relaxation techniques, contribute to an improve physical health. These benefits help people feel stronger and more capable of handling stress.

Boosts confidence: Practicing yoga daily helps build self-esteem and confidence. This empowerment enables one to deal with the challenges associated with PTSD more effectively.