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This International Yoga Day, learn these 5 simple ways to include yoga in your everyday life and start your journey towards mindfulness!
What are the 5 simple ways to include yoga in your everyday life?
What consistent yoga and meditation practice can do for you is very difficult to describe in words because it is not something that one can express, really. It is something to be experienced. And every experience is different.
Yoga and meditation is something beyond contemplation because it gives a person something that his/her body and mind needs at that time.
It’s my personal experience as a yoga practitioner for the last 13 odd years now. Also, as a yoga teacher, I have seen it transforming lives in more ways than one. So, if meditation has improved someone’s concentration, it has brought someone out of depression.
So, the experience you get is as per your needs. I know this may sound a bit abstract, but I wanted to share my thoughts openly today on the occasion of International Yoga Day 2023!
Contrary to popular belief, yoga is much more than just a series of physical postures (asanas) aimed at keeping the body fit. It serves as the initial step towards moksha, according to Maharishi Patanjali, who gave us the eight limbs of yoga known as Ashtang Yog.
In this article, we’ll explore different aspects of yoga and how you can easily incorporate it into your daily life for a more fulfilling existence.
Honestly, I wanted to say 1 hour, but I understand we all lead busy lives, and committing to a full hour can be challenging.
Begin with 30 minutes of yoga in the morning, followed by 10 minutes of meditation and 5 minutes of Nadi Shodan Pranayama (alternate nostril breathing).
You’ll notice visible improvements in your mental and physical health, as well as a positive shift in your energy. If you don’t have time in the morning, then shift the meditation to the evening slot.
Note: It’s important to do yoga and meditation practice the right way. It is not how much you do, but how you do make all the difference. Maharishi Patanjali has stated Pranayama is like playing with fire – it is so powerful.
So, I highly recommend you to take one class at least with a good yoga teacher. Therefore, I highly recommend taking at least one class with a knowledgeable yoga teacher to ensure you’re practising correctly.
Our breath is intimately connected to our emotions. When we’re angry, our breath becomes faster and shallower, while happiness and peace are reflected in deep, slow breaths. By consciously manipulating our breath, we can influence our mood, shift emotions, and enhance productivity.
Pro Tip: If you feel anxious or fearful, simply observe your breath and slow down its rhythm. Take a few deep, long breaths, and observe how your anxiety diminishes or, at the very least, reduces.
Given our hectic schedules, we often use mealtime as an opportunity to watch shows on OTT platforms or YouTube. However, if we can be fully present with our food and the people we share our meals with; it can make a world of difference.
Additionally, the type of food we consume plays a crucial role.
There are three categories: Satvik, Rajasik, and Tamasik. It’s beneficial to incorporate more Satvik and reduce Rajasik foods in your daily diet. Ideally, avoid Tamasik foods altogether.
(You can explore more about these categories online if you’re interested.)
Yoga and Ayurveda emphasize the profound connection between human beings and nature. Yoga teaches us to align our body, mind, and spirit with the rhythms of nature, fostering a deep sense of harmony and balance.
Similarly, Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine, views our well-being as intricately linked to the elements and cycles of nature.
Talking nature walks, going out in the morning or the evening sun or spending time near a beautiful flowing water body not just have health benefits but also soothes the mind.
Lastly, let’s talk about practising Ashtanga Yog in everyday life, specifically the five Yamas and five Niyamas. These ethical guidelines provide a solid foundation for living a balanced and meaningful life.
Integrating these principles into your daily activities (as much as possible) can lead to personal growth and a deeper connection with yourself and others.
“Yogah Karmasu Kausalam”
It means: Yoga is Skill in Action! Any action that you do, yoga brings up that skill in you, wherein you are not feverish.
The three ‘F’ Factor: Freedom from fear, feverishness and foolishness!
Another shloka says:
“Samatvam Yog Uchyate”
Meaning: Yoga brings equanimity in you. It is the equanimity that wells up in you, that comes up in you, stabilises your consciousness. One needs to be poised in chaotic situations to be able to have clarity and take right decisions.
In conclusion, I would only say start small, be consistent, and watch as yoga transforms your everyday existence.
As you weave yoga and meditation into the fabric of your daily life, be prepared to be amazed as it guides you towards vibrant health, deep serenity, and limitless possibilities. Hope you find these 5 simple ways to include yoga in your everyday life easy to follow!
Happy International Yoga Day!
Image source: CanvaPro
I am a published Author, a Professional Content and Copywriter, a Writing Coach, and a Certified Yoga Teacher. Apart from teaching yoga and reading, I love to connect with positive souls on social media to read more...
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