Yoga for Anxiety - 20 Minute Practice - Yoga With Adriene

Recent questions

• How can yoga help with anxiety relief?

  Yoga can be a beneficial practice for anxiety relief by focusing on transforming body energy, finding support, and accepting surroundings. Techniques like pranayama, such as alternate nostril breathing, can help calm nerves and anxiety. Through gentle twists, stretches, and poses like seated head-to-knee, yoga encourages relaxation, deep breathing, and surrendering to the present moment. Lying on the back, hugging knees, and feeling supported by the mat can further promote a sense of calm. Closing the practice with gratitude and relaxation exercises can leave you feeling more at ease and centered.

• What is the alternate nostril breathing technique?

  Alternate nostril breathing is a pranayama technique used in yoga to help calm nerves and anxiety. This technique involves sitting comfortably, bringing the heels in, and placing hands on the knees with eyes closed. By alternating between breathing through each nostril, practitioners can balance the flow of energy in the body and promote a sense of calmness. Detailed instructions on how to perform alternate nostril breathing include using the thumb and ring finger to close off one nostril while inhaling and exhaling through the other, then switching sides. This technique can be a powerful tool for managing stress and anxiety.

• What are the benefits of seated forward fold in yoga?

  Seated forward fold in yoga is a pose that emphasizes relaxation and deep breathing. By folding forward while seated, practitioners can stretch the spine, hamstrings, and lower back, promoting a sense of release and surrender. This pose can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve flexibility in the body. Focusing on deep breathing while in seated forward fold can also aid in relaxation and grounding, making it a beneficial posture for both physical and mental well-being.

• How does yoga promote relaxation through gentle twists and stretches?

  Yoga promotes relaxation through gentle twists and stretches by encouraging expansion and breath in the body. Twists and stretches for the upper body can help release tension, improve circulation, and increase flexibility. By focusing on the breath while moving through these poses, practitioners can cultivate a sense of mindfulness and presence in the moment. Gentle twists and stretches in yoga can also help relieve tightness in the muscles, reduce stress, and create a feeling of openness and ease in the body.

• What is the significance of the closing posture in yoga practice?

  The closing posture in a yoga practice, such as feet together, knees wide, hands on hip creases, extending legs and arms for gratitude and relaxation, holds significance in promoting a sense of gratitude and relaxation. By coming into this posture at the end of a practice, practitioners can express thanks for the practice, their body, and the present moment. Extending the legs and arms while feeling supported by the ground can create a feeling of openness and connection to the earth. This closing posture can help cultivate a sense of peace, contentment, and mindfulness, leaving practitioners feeling grounded and centered.