Adopting yogic practices, pranayama, and meditation techniques, introduces positive lifestyle changes which enable one to develop the skills needed to overcome self-imposed artificial limitations. These same techniques serve us to manage uncontrollable, external events which may have the same physical and mental impact as internally created stress. Regardless of the source of stress, together these mindful practices help to reduce the body’s vulnerability to various disease, viruses (e.g. COVID-19), and chronic illness.
Yoga helps develop strong mind-body connection, promoting the ability to neutralize the underlying causes of stress – whether it is triggered by internal or external factors in the environment. Yoga helps to lower the stress hormones that compromise the immune system. It conditions the lungs and respiratory tract by stimulating the lymphatic system to secrete toxins from the body. It brings oxygenated blood to various organs in the body to ensure their optimal function; particularly important for the body’s ability to resist infection from exposure to the COVID-19 virus.
Pranayama works on the nervous system which controls essential body functions – heart rate, respiration, blood pressure, and affects the autonomic nervous system by regulating breathing. Controlled breathing reduces stress levels and boosts the immune system. Mindful breathwork comprised of deep inhalations and exhalations channel more oxygen into the blood. The increased oxygen level in the blood improves the performance of the nervous system ensuring this vital pathway continues to operate at its peak performance.
Meditation is a technique that helps to control stress, decrease anxiety, and improve cardiovascular health. Meditation is a way to relax tension. Mindful meditation is achieved through self-discipline. This can be developed through focused observation of the connection between our body, mind, and our thoughts. Obtaining a higher state of awareness can be achieved through discernment, knowledge, and self-awareness.
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