Yoga and mental health

By -

Mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual can meet the demands of the mundane tasks of life as well as the more challenging ones without feeling overwhelmed or stressed.

Living in a fast-paced world with constant pressure can create stress on mental health. Conditions that affect the mind like mental disorders, addiction, etc. negatively impact the body. It is estimated that 6-7 % of the Indian population suffers from mental disorders. Given the sheer population size, this number roughly amounts to 9,90,51,024 people suffering. Further mental health is an integral part of health, not just a social issue. It is a right of every human being, which must be protected.

A healthy mental apparatus is important for personal growth, sustaining relationships, productivity and dealing with one’s environment. It can be improved with personal effort/Saadhana (Yoga Saadhana), with professional help or both. What can be done to improve mental health?

Maharshi Patanjali defines Yoga as "Yogaschittavruttinirodaha" in the second sutra of Samadhi Paada in his treatise on Yoga shastra. It means that Yoga is that which vanquishes (removes) the modifications (disturbances) of the mind. More about the types of modifications, their effects, and how to overcome them has been explored in that 2nd-century BCE text. The text is written as a formula for ease of remembrance. When expanded and understood in the correct sense of letter and spirit, it opens a plethora of resources for mental health.

By practicing Yoga in a prescribed way constantly for a longer duration, one can eventually gain control over the flow of thoughts and try to correct the modifications of the mind at a subconscious level. Yoga is more than any posture or breathing. It is a way of life that has to be adopted, practiced, and perfected. 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Teacher or Guru

By -
Image
     All the great scientists, sages and leaders are teachers or Guru in one way or the other. They are the ones who live by example. Guiding humanity towards the light in all aspects, whether it is material, mental, psychological or spiritual has been the mandate of these people.      First let's analyse what and who is a Guru. Guru means: The one who vanquishes the darkness. He/she is the one who leads by example which requires a great amount of sacrifice, discipline, will power, tenacity, determination and sacredness. He/she has to maintain a mental balance and integrity in the gravest of circumstances. He/she has to be capable of self reflection and should have an attitude to learn, unlearn, relearn and teach continuously. He/she should be aware of his/her own strengths and weaknesses and should be able to acknowledge and correct keeping aside his/her personal ego aside. His/her destiny should be a path of wisdom and he/she should strive continuously to better his/her attribute
Read more

Women empowerment in India: equality or Justice

By -
Image
(Content by Aishwarya. Edited and moderated by me. )     Unfortunately, today we are in a situation where Goddess forms are worshipped on one hand and a child is raped on the other. Is this the kind of society that we wish for our progeny? Is this what our culture has taught us? The amount of work done by a women in domestic sphere is not just taken into account while calculating the GDP of our country. Just imagine what if everything that a women does in the house gets monetised. Women become empowered when all women have freedom to enjoy all the fundamental rights, are allowed to perform all the duties and take responsibilities in an environment which guarantees physical, mental and emotional safety.       Women undergo a lot of social pressure domestically as well as professionally. Considering the pain during menstrual cycles, compromises in marriage, child bearing years, sacrifices in motherhood and menopause pain; women have been quite successful in various fields inspite of livi
Read more

Yujyate Anena Iti Yogah

By -
Image
  For thousands of years, people have adopted the ancient practice of Yoga to enhance their physical and mental well-being. Its foundation is the idea that the body and mind are interconnected, and it has its roots in India. The Sanskrit word " Yuj ," which means "to connect or join," is where the word " Yoga " originates. A common definition of  Yoga  is the fusion of the mind, body, and soul. It is a comprehensive technique that incorporates breathing exercises, physical postures, meditation, and mindfulness. The fact that  Yoga  helps to increase strength and flexibility is one of its key advantages. The physical positions, or asanas, help to increase flexibility while also stretching and toning the muscles. Injuries can be prevented and posture can be improved as a result. Yoga  provides a lot of advantages for mental wellness as well. Stress and anxiety can be lessened by practicing meditation and breathing exercises. Additionally, it can aid in
Read more