Yoga can be a tremendous force for sustainability, balance and health, even when one devotes as little as 15-30 minutes to it daily. Read about some important and effective yoga poses.
Yoga and sustainable lifestyle: In these stressful times — when most people are forced to live a fast time — it is important to turn to yoga to bring about healthy changes and balance in your life. There is an environmental crisis also going on for far too long now, and yoga is supposedly emerging as a bridge for the body, mind, and breath that enhances lives and provides a lifestyle that is eco-friendly. Yoga promotes mindfulness, making a person consciously think about what they eat and how they live. Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, an author, columnist, and the founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa says this ‘higher consciousness’ leads to simpler living, less waste and richer relationships between a person and the world.
Read on to know about the five incredible yoga asanas that are not only beneficial for the body, but they can also promote a more balanced and sustainable living — as explained by the yoga and spiritual leader.
Mount Pose (Tadasana)
This yoga pose can make one feel more grounded and aware.
Steps:
- Feet in tandem, hands on lower sides of waist.
- Take deep breaths and lift arms over your head, together with palms towards one another.
- Knees bent and firm feet, lift the body up.
- Stay in that position for a few breaths.
Benefits: It improves posture, increases mindfulness and relaxes the mind. It is a great way to get started on a sustainable routine.
Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)
This is a symbol of nature and balance. This pose makes you steady on your feet.
Steps:
- Stand tall. Put your weight on the left leg.
- Place the right foot on the left inner thigh.
- Place your palms together at the chest or over your head.
- Stay like this for 30 seconds before repeating on the other side.
Benefits: It can improve concentration and stability, both of which are factors required for eco-conscious decision-making and mental fortification.
Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
This pose can stretch the entire body, from the shoulders to the toes. It is refreshing.
Steps:
- Get ready on your hands and knees. Lift the hips and the back and make an inverted V position.
- Keep the spine straight and heels down.
- Hold the pose for 1 or 2 minutes.
Benefits: It improves circulation, reduces stress and provides exercise-like strength.
Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
This calming backbend can soothe the nervous system.
Steps:
- Lie back, knees bent, feet/thighs hip-width apart.
- Inhale and lift the hips up.
- Interlace your fingers and press the hands down.
- Hold for 30-60 seconds.
Benefits: It increases the heart rate, opens the chest and the lungs, improves digestion, lowers anxiety, and promotes emotional health.
Relaxing With Breathing-Control In Easy Pose (Sukhasana Pranayama)
A breath awareness meditation, which combines breath and calmness.
Steps:
- Sit on your heels with your back straight.
- Stand with your hands on the knee, and palms up.
- Close your eyes and take deep, slow rhythmic breaths (Nadi Shodhana — right nostril breathing, left nostril closing)
- Perform again for 5-10 minutes.
Benefits: It expands lung capacity and conscious self, creating a slow living concept with internal harmony.
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