Our health constitutes our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. To live an enriching life, we need to nurture and care for our own well-being. When all these aspects are combined together, we can call this holistic well-being. Yoga is the ancient and divine science that takes care of our whole being.
Asanas
Start with sukshma vyayama or subtle exercises. These consist of gentle rotation of neck, arms, wrists, hips and ankles to slowly warm up the joints. Walk around briskly and stretch and mobilise your muscles. This will prepare your body for practice and keep you safe from practice-related injuries.
1. Samasthiti (Mountain pose)
Benefits: It prepares your body and calms your mind It improves overall body posture Creates self-awareness
2. Surya Namaskar (Sun salutation)
Surya Namaskar has an array of health benefits, which include combating insomnia, regulating menstrual cycle, helping in weight loss and improving the respiratory, circulatory, reproductive and the endocrine system, to name a few. Surya namaskar comprises of a total of 24 counts, done with 12 steps for each side. As Surya Namaskar represents the energy of the Sun, which is said to be contained in the right side of the body, it begins with the right leg. Repeat the same twelve steps with the left side to finish one complete cycle. Start with a minimum of 4-5 cycles and increase it gradually.
3. Dhanurasana (Bow pose)
Dhanurasana is derived from two Sanskrit words, ‘Dhanur’ meaning bow and ‘asana’ meaning posture. This yoga asana helps strengthen the back and abdominal muscles, relieves menstrual pain, prevents constipation and lowers stress levels.
4. Chakrasana (Wheel pose)
This yoga asana strengthens the nervous system, increases energy, promotes weight loss, improves lung health and lowers osteoporosis risk.