📣 For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
Tags:
Journalism of Courage
Most of us have a love-hate relationship with our bodies, irrespective of how much we weigh. The arm flab, the thigh flesh or the stretch marks. There’s so much to be distressed about, especially if you’re on extreme ends of the weight spectrum, fat or not.
Hansaji Yogendra, director, The Yoga Institute, tells indianexpress.com in an interaction that societal standards can make one feel pressured about their bodies. “Sometimes if you don’t meet these expectations, it can affect how you see yourselves and, in turn, impact your mental health.”
While in theory you know your worth weighs far more than your body could, it can be difficult to truly accept that as a fact. But this is doing you much more harm than you first may have imagined.
Dr Rohan Kumar, consultant psychiatrist, Regency Hospital noted that negative body image often fosters self-criticism, potentially triggering or exacerbating conditions like depression and eating disorders.
“Mental well-being thrives when individuals prioritise self-care, emphasising healthy habits rather than chasing an arbitrary number on a scale. This mindset shift can empower individuals to prioritise their mental well-being, recognizing that true health is a harmonious blend of physical, mental, and emotional elements,” he added.
This is where yoga comes in, according to Yogendra as it helps you connect with your mind and body.
If you’ve experienced any noticeable changes in your weight and it is causing you distress, then you can focus on yoga poses that encourage relaxation and acceptance, Yogendra said.
In this, you take up a forward-bending position with the body resembling a foetal shape. This encourages a sense of surrender and introspection. This posture stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system to counter stress and to bring a state of relaxation.
This pose is known for its chest-opening benefits. It also has a connection with emotional release, creating an environment that supports feelings of vulnerability and acceptance.
Also known as the Corpse Pose, this often involves a body-scan technique. During this pose, attention is directed to different parts of the body, promoting awareness and the release of tension. The breathing and relaxation in Shavasana contribute to reducing cortisol, the stress hormone.
Listen to your body and go at your own pace. “The combination of physical postures, breath awareness, and mental focus in these poses can make you feel more balanced,” explained Yogendra.
