Do you ever feel overwhelmed, overworked, stressed or anxious? You’re not alone, my friend. With the hustle and bustle most of us experience in our lives, the pressure of work or parenting, it’s no wonder that anxiety of all forms seems to be on the rise. Have you ever considered trying yoga for anxiety and stress? While I’m not an expert or psychiatrist, I am a mom of two and an entrepreneur who has worked hard to combat my anxiety. After trying many things, yoga is at the top of my list of things that have greatly improved my overall mental well being.
After having my daughter last October, I struggled to balance it all – work, social life and being a new mom of two. Unfortunately this is common, but my own well being was last on my priority list. A friend of mine mentioned that she started attending a yoga class as a way to manage her stress and anxiety. I decided to give it a try, not expecting to get much out of it. But I really did, and it’s made a huge difference for me. Here’s how I use yoga for anxiety and why you should give it a try!
Find Strength
There is something to be said for feeling physically stronger. Sure, you can hit the gym and lift weights to build muscle, but the strength that develops from yoga is much different. It’s an inner and outer strength that I’ve never found anywhere else. While you are building physical strength through various poses, you are also building mental strength – and when your body feels stronger, your brain follows suit.
Release Stress
Yoga allows you to breathe. I mean really breathe. You can physically feel the stress leaving your body as you breathe in and out at your own pace. Yoga is all about being conscious of each breath you take, learning to slow it down. This is a vital skill, especially during times when you might feel panic setting in. Once learned, you can use this tool in any situation!
Unplug
For most of us, our cell phone is attached to our hand. It can be really overwhelming to constantly be plugged into the rest of the world. When I am getting ready to hit the mat and begin my practice, the first thing I do is turn my cell phone off. It’s my opportunity to focus 100 percent of my attention on myself for that full hour without any interruptions or any distractions. Unplugging is good for the soul, give it a try!
Renew Confidence
Anxiety has a way of breaking you down and distorting your self-perception. Yoga reminds you that you are a beautiful soul, capable of doing anything you set your mind to! Since I started my yoga practice, I feel more myself than ever! My monthly YogaClub subscription has been a big part of my journey. Not only do I become a strong, empowered woman when I hit the mat, new yoga gear gives me unmatched confidence. I’m not one to spend money on myself (moms out there, I’m sure you can relate), but my YogaClub box is a gift to me from me, so when I take that hour a day for myself, I feel like a million bucks!
Whether you are struggling with anxiety or just feeling a little overwhelmed, take the time to focus on yourself today. Do something that is just for you! Sign up for that yoga class you’ve been putting off! Grab that YogaClub box you’ve had your eye on (go on, take the style quiz here)! Take the vacation you’ve been too busy for. Whatever you decide to do, dedicating time in your busy day exclusively to nurturing your soul will help you more than you think.
About the Author
Nikki Young is a military wife, mom of two and yoga enthusiast. As a YogaClub Ambassador, you’ll find her showing off her yoga gear on YouTube and Facebook every month. When she’s not on the mat, Nikki also runs an online makeup business.
