Our daily life can be repetitive, predictable and, at times, even boring. The same routine – waking up, eating, going for work, and sleeping–can drain us physically, mentally and emotionally. This same exhaustion can serve as a backdrop for reflection, creativity and spiritual insight.Asana practices are very useful in taking our mind off these routines and gently guiding our thoughts and attention inwards.They help in physical stability as well as mental peace.
We need to be mindful and cautious with our asana practices. The changing weathercan affect us negatively. For instance, in sudden hot weather, Supta Baddhakonasana is the go-to pose, and backbends avoidable poses.
Even if the body is automatically following an instruction and doing an action,the sensory neurons, motor neurons and the brain are activated in a matter of seconds and the mind adapts itself to the new action.However, the mind does not differentiate between good and bad thoughts; performing a tamasic (lethargic) or rajasic (over-exerting) action or thinking process, will create mind waves immediately. So, we should make sure that the mind is fed with the right thoughts and emotions. Asana practice removes the dull or overactive thoughts by bringing the body and mind into a Sthithi. When the body settles in the poses for a longer period of time, the mind also rests into these different Sthitis, and vibrates in its purest form. With consistent practice, our mind reaches a stage where asanas are no longer needed for the concentration required to stop the variations.
Sometimes, when the mind tries to reach out to a specific part of the body in asana practice and the location is closed, no awareness will be felt. This is due to the fact that a distance has been created between the mind and that part of the body, and which is usually difficult to penetrate. Constant asana practice helps the mind to connect to all parts of the body regularly.
When the Prana Vayu does not flow efficiently, our mental reactions are much faster than our body’s reaction. Again, asana practice helps us in optimization of our breath. Using the breath in the correct manner is like takinga dip in the Ganges and washing away oursins. Happiness and contentmentis a result of unhindered breath energy.
Emotions are deceptive and momentary. But, emotionsof depressionseem to linger much longer than happiness, as the mind tendsto be comfortable in darkness. Yogasanas force the mind to come out of the dark place and focus on the action required in maintaining the poses. We perform asanas on both the sides, even though one side seems better at it. This helps the mind to be neutral. Equanimity of body and removing the imbalance is Yog. In conclusion,the focus should be on the asana and the breath and not on the emotions. Remember, it is not about people around you, but about you and your own energy that decides your physical and mental health. Never look down upon yourself on the mat. This is your own personal space where nobody judges you. Go, get on the mat and practise!