Anxiety

{"posts":[{"title":"Yoga Nidra for Sleep","coverUrl":"p9x3cqj0uai5aewn58s9.jpg","slug":"yoga-nidra-for-sleep","content":{"text":"Take Charge of Your Sleep Cycle with this Meditation Practice\\nNot sleeping very well? If you’re having trouble with your sleep cycle, you’re not alone.\\n \\nOver 35 percent of Americans\\n get less than seven hours of sleep a night, less than the minimum needed for good health. \\nThere are many causes of sleep disorders which vary based on all kinds of factors — including age, health, and even geographical location. And let’s face it, modern day life is full of stressors that give us lots of reasons to lie awake at night. However, sleep deprivation can negatively affect your health in ways that may actually\\n \\nreduce your life expectancy\\n. It can be a serious health issue if left unaddressed.\\nThankfully, there’s a yogic medicine that can help alleviate sleeplessness and restore your nightly cycle. First introduced by Swami Satyananda Saraswati in 1976, Yoga Nidra can help you relax your mind and body, which in turn allows you to sleep better overall.\\nYoga Nidra for Sleep\\nYoga Nidra, otherwise known as the “yoga of sleep,” is a meditation practice that utilizes that transitional state between sleeping and waking to induce deep relaxation. This state opens up your conscious awareness and connection with yourself.\\nTo enable the most relaxation possible, Yoga Nidra is practiced as a guided meditation. Anyone can practice Yoga Nidra regardless of your ability or experience level. Beginners are welcome in the practice, as well as people who have never meditated or performed yoga before. Yoga Nidra is one of the easiest and most approachable meditations you can try and it’s incredibly good for you.\\nYou can use Yoga Nidra to simply wind down and get ready for bed in the evening, as a tool to decrease stress and anxiety, or to heal trauma. There is no risk in trying it, and you may be surprised at how well Yoga Nidra can restore nervous system functioning and get you sleeping the recommended 7 to 9 hours every night.\\n\\nBenefits of Yoga Nidra\\nOther than getting your sleep cycle back on track, Yoga Nidra has numerous other benefits that impact your health and day-to-day life. Even though this Sanskrit name translates to “yoga for sleep,” it can impact your well-being in a variety of ways. \\n\\nStudies show\\n that meditation reduces symptoms of anxiety and stress, and Yoga Nidra is uniquely effective in decreasing anxiety and increasing your quality of life. If you suffer from trauma, depression, anxiety, or high blood pressure, this meditation can help you find tranquility and boost your sense of well-being.\\nYoga Nidra also stimulates your pineal gland and helps balance your hormones, giving your body the tools it needs to heal itself. Practicing Yoga Nidra regulates your nervous system, which in turn helps calm your body and mind, so that you can sleep soundly and restful\\nSome of the benefits of Yoga Nidra include:\\nImproves sleep\\nEases symptoms of trauma and PTSD\\nReduces stress and anxiety\\nIncreases relaxation\\nReduces depression and addiction\\nCalms the mind\\nIncreases breathing capacity\\nYoga Nidra Meditation\\nSo, how does Yoga Nidra work? It’s often performed as a guided meditation so you can allow yourself to relax as deeply as possible. You can find Yoga Nidra scripts and audio recordings online, or you can try enrolling in a Yoga Nidra class at\\n MyYogaTeacher\\n. It is a meditation that can be practiced at home where you feel most comfortable. \\nYoga Nidra focuses on helping you achieve a delicate state that is neither awake or asleep. This focus is what makes it different from other types of meditation, because you’re trying to reach a state of relaxation that is much deeper than most. In technical terms, Yoga Nidra involves tapping into the delta state of consciousness, whereas most other meditations focus on the theta state — which is a more alert, focused state.\\n\\nHow to Practice Yoga Nidra\\nWhile it’s intended to help you reach a delta state of consciousness, Yoga Nidra can actually make you fall completely asleep, so you can choose to practice this meditation from your very own bed — however, to get the full benefits of this meditation, it’s recommended that you try and maintain that state between waking and sleeping — without falling asleep. The best place to practice Yoga Nidra is on a yoga mat with an eye pillow and a blanket.\\nTypically, a Yoga Nidra script is read by a certified instructor or you can listen to this meditation by downloading it online. If you don’t have an audible script available, you can guide yourself through the process of Yoga Nidra. It’s easy for anyone to try and there is no wrong way to practice.\\nYou can begin each session with an intention for yourself, or a goal of what you’d like to get out of your practice. Make sure you’re in a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed, lying down on your back on your yoga mat or anywhere else you feel comfortable. Use your eye pillow to block out the light and help your face relax, and a blanket to remain comfortable, since your body may cool down. \\nGently close your eyes and allow yourself to breath easily and steadily. Let your entire body relax into the mat. Turn your awareness to your head and your neck, and allow the muscles in your face, neck, and shoulders to completely relax. Continue to move your attention down the length of your body — to your torso, arms, hips, back, legs, and feet — helping each body part fully relax with your awareness.  \\nOnce your entire body is deeply relaxed, allow yourself to remain in this state for as long as you feel comfortable. If you’re new to practicing Yoga Nidra, you may want to start with a short session — anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes. As you get more experience, you can lengthen your sessions as you see fit.\\n\\nOnline Yoga for Sleep\\nYoga Nidra often works best if you practice some light yoga asanas before your meditation. In fact, you can try a complete yoga routine to help you sleep by enrolling in an\\n \\nonline class to ease stress and anxiety\\n. Performing easy yoga postures before your Yoga Nidra meditation will help your body relax more fully and allow you to get the maximum benefits from your practice. \\nIf you’ve never tried yoga postures or Yoga Nidra before, you can start by\\n \\nsigning up for a free, two-week trial\\n of MyYogaTeacher. With access to yoga classes online, you can set up a new routine of nightly yoga to help you fall asleep. There are live, group classes available, or you can schedule a private session with a certified instructor who can tailor a session to your Yoga Nidra meditation. \\nYou can get back to sleeping peacefully every night with a regular practice of Yoga Nidra. This meditation works best over time, and with a regular routine you can reduce sleeplessness and get the recommended hours of rest every night — which will improve your day-to-day life immeasurably. "},"createdAt":"2022-08-30T13:10:49.183409+00:00","author":{"name":"Shilpi","pictureUrl":"shilpi4.jpg","teacherMytSlug":"shilpi-1"},"category":["anxiety","therapy"]},{"title":"The Not-So-Secret Benefits of Sound Healing: When Music is Medicine","coverUrl":"yceufd0mdixpbsqnowqt.jpg","slug":"benefits-of-sound-healing","content":{"text":"It’s no secret that music is old, ancient in fact. Humans have been making and listening to music for millenia…\\nthousands\\n of years. While the origins of music may be a bit of a mystery, it is obvious that humans respond to it mentally, emotionally, and physically.\\nMusic is medicine with absolutely no negative physiological side effects.\\nOur bodies emit energy, just like every other thing (living or not) on this planet. And when we are exposed to certain frequencies of music, which is also energy, our bodies respond to it. Sometimes, the vibration from music alone can positively impact our body. \\nScience has proven that sound healing is an effective tool to treat physical pain as well as emotional and mental distress. However, anecdotally, music has shown to be a powerful source of healing for many people in many ways.\\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we believe wholeheartedly in the power of sound healing. We don’t teach it just because it’s an ancient, traditional practice. It truly benefits our students’ mental, physical, and emotional health!\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nLet’s discuss the benefits of sound healing!\\n\\n\n\\nSound healing meditation helps with pain management\\nThe most common form of pain management, particularly in America, is over-the-counter and prescription medications. Increasingly more people are seeking alternative pain management techniques due to the negative side effects of these medications.\\nAlso known in the scientific world as \\nvibroacoustic therapy\\n, sound healing has been proven to improve physical pain from illnesses and diseases such as:\\nFibromyalgia\\nArthritis\\nCOVID-19\\nBone issues (such as heal spurs)\\nCerebral palsy\\nScience of how sound therapy improves pain\\nSound therapy and sound meditation has also been shown to alleviate menstrual symptoms, postoperative pain, and reduces muscle pain and stiffness. \\nHow? Sound therapy lowers your blood pressure and improves circulation, both of which affect pain intensity. Additionally, sound works through the vibrational tactile sensors in the body, stimulating the touch fibers that affect pain perception.\\nSound vibrations that match the vibration of the energy of healthy cells in the body have also been shown to heal the body and bring it back to a harmonious energy state. Scientists all over the world have created devices of all sorts that emulate the vibrational waves of different parts of the body in order to provide healing.\\nAt MyYogaTeacher, you don’t need any devices to participate in sound healing! Many of our instructors are highly experienced experts in the world of sound healing meditation and provide various types of classes focused on the topic.\\nBesides healing the body and helping with pain management, sound meditations are beneficial in other ways as well.\\n\\n\\nSound meditation improves mental and emotional health\\nRemember how I mentioned that sound therapy reduces blood pressure and increases blood flow? Lower blood pressure means the body is calming down and not releasing as much cortisol, a stress hormone that is bad for you in high or consistent doses. Improved circulation means your body and mind are receiving more oxygen and nutrient-rich blood, which fuels us and makes us feel more relaxed and invigorated.\\nSound  is a powerful and effective tool for changing one’s brain state, improving mood, reducing anxiety and depression, and calming down the central nervous system.\\nScience behind how sound meditation improves mental health\\nOur brains emit four different types of \\nbrain waves\\n at various times of day:\\nBeta waves\\n are emitted when our brains are the most active, usually during the day or during activity\\nAlpha waves \\noccur when the brain is finished with a task or activity or when one meditates\\nTheta waves \\nare associated with REM sleep, daydreaming, or have highway hypnosis when you’re driving for a long time\\nDelta waves \\noccur when you’re having a dreamless sleep and are the slowest of the four types of waves\\nSound waves occur at all different frequencies. But sound meditation and sound therapy involves music made with an instrument or through chanting at a frequency that matches alpha, theta, or delta waves, depending on the goal of the meditation.\\nThis allows your mind and body to relax deeply while still being conscious. When our brains are conscious but in a meditative trance-like state, we are easily able to release negative thoughts, energy, stress, worries. Our minds are suggestable, malleable to change in thought patterns and behaviors.\\nSound therapy also provides such a deep relaxation that you are refreshed and calm, free from many or all of the anxiety and depressive symptoms you suffered from before the session.\\nRegular sound healing meditations are extremely beneficial for mental health and emotional regulation.\\nAre you interested in learning more about the benefits of sound meditation? Maybe you’re ready to try one of the many sound therapy classes we offer at MyYogaTeacher! All are welcome. There is never any judgment if you don’t know or understand something in our classes. MyYogaTeacher classes are safe places to explore, learn, and grow as a human and a yogi!\\nWe offer 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n"},"createdAt":"2022-07-21T19:38:57.229678+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["therapy","emotional_health","anxiety","mental_health"]},{"title":"How Kundalini Yoga Helps You Break Bad Habits for Good","coverUrl":"aqhpng8xmxojrvkucffv.jpg","slug":"kundalini-yoga-for-breaking-bad-habits","content":{"text":"You have the power to break bad habits. Whether you feel like you do or not, you have the power inside you to make \\nany\\n changes you want in yourself!\\nWillpower is the main source of drive for most people trying to break bad habits.\\nUnfortunately, for most of us, the strength of our willpower ebbs and flows with the ups and downs in our lives! A bad day may lead to emotional eating. A stressful situation may lead to resuming something like smoking. Celebratory occasions may prompt someone who is trying to quit drinking to have “just one drink.” \\nYou’re not weak when you “fall off the wagon” from breaking whatever bad habit you’ve been working on breaking. You’re \\nnormal\\n.\\nThe secret of breaking bad habits is to be able to control your physical, mental, and emotional self no matter the ebbs and flows of life. So that the willpower you rely on to help you break bad habits is more stable and not subject to change on a whim.\\nYoga helps you break bad habits for sure! You certainly have more control over your emotions, better self awareness, a healthier mindset, and more harmony in your life. However, kundalini yoga specifically helps strengthen intuition and willpower.\\nSeveral of our expert and experienced yoga teachers at MyYogaTeacher focus specifically on teaching kundalini yoga! They understand that many people struggle with breaking bad habits and creating positive changes in their lives that last and want to help their students do just that.\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nLet’s talk about how kundalini yoga will help you break bad habits now and in the future (and permanently)\\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga and meditation focuses on repetitive behaviors\\nIn the physical aspect of a kundalini yoga practice, you’ll not only repeat asanas, but you’ll also hold poses for longer periods of time. Sometimes even up to five minutes!\\nDeveloping the mental and physical fortitude that is required to repeat poses in a structured flow on a regular basis is an excellent way to teach yourself how to kick bad habits and replace them with healthier ones.\\nBy committing to these repetitive movements, you are training your mind and entire nervous system to resist the temptation to give up. This is an important aspect to breaking bad habits and building new ones.\\nRemember, breaking a bad habit isn’t just about ending a cycle of negative repetitive behaviors. It’s also about \\ncreating a cycle of positive ones\\n!\\nAdditionally, there is always a meditative aspect to any traditional kundalini yoga practice, where you will learn chants, repeat chants, and learn breathing techniques you’ll use in times of stress, emotional upheaval, and/or when you’re feeling tempted to cave to whatever habit you’re trying to break.\\nWhich leads us to…\\n\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga improves your mood\\nHave you ever noticed if you’re going to give into temptation, \\nmost of the time\\n, it’s when you’re sad, mad, anxious, depressed, or stressed? Yes, of course we cave at celebrations too or at events when we’re happy. \\nBut we are certainly more inclined to stick to our guns when we’re in a good mood, feeling good about ourselves, or feeling accomplished.\\nA regular kundalini yoga practice entails a very spiritual (not religious) meditation and includes several different types of breathwork. Both of these aspects of yoga have been proven by scientific research to reduce stress and improve, or even eliminate, feelings of depression, anxiety, anger, and frustration. The reduction of negative emotions and the improvement of mental and emotional health are part of what makes kundalini yoga perfect for helping people stop bad habits for good!\\n\n\\n\\nKundalini yoga requires physical and mental strength\\nWhen you think about ending bad habits for good, maybe doing something that you \\nknow\\n requires significant effort to help you do so isn’t the first thing you think about. Because why take something hard like breaking a bad habit and make it harder, right?\\nWrong.\\nPart of the reason people struggle with permanently changing their habits is because they haven’t “exercised” the part of themselves that are needed to make the change for good. You don’t make physical changes without changing your diet or physical activity levels. And those changes aren’t maintained if you quit doing the things you did to make the change to begin with.\\nIt is the same for breaking bad habits! Kundalini yoga and meditation is a tool to keep your physical, mental, and emotional health strong so that you are more easily able to not just break \\none\\n bad habit, but any that you want to. \\nKundalini yoga requires you to use physical and mental strength and helps you maintain and grow in the areas you need to grow so you can create permanent positive changes in your life.\\n\n\\n\\n\nMany find kundalini yoga and meditation challenging, but they also walk away from their practice enlightened, strengthened, more relaxed, and prepared to live presently and positively in their life.\\nAt MyYogaTeacher, there are many amazing and experienced yoga instructors who work with yogis every single day on how to break bad habits. Many are experts in kundalini yoga and meditation and guide MyYogaTeacher students in this very special type of practice.\\nIf you’re interested in how to strengthen your physical, mental, and emotional fortitude so you are equipped to create permanent change in your life, I encourage you to grab your 2-week free trial of MyYogaTeacher! No credit card required.\\nWe offer 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\n"},"createdAt":"2022-07-06T00:09:59.700384+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["anxiety","emotional_health","meditation","yoga"]},{"title":"The Science Behind How Yoga Nidra Affects Your Mental Health ","coverUrl":"jxarku7prcghfy5mtcey.jpg","slug":"yoga-nidra-science","content":{"text":"As the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and other mental disorders continue to rise, worldwide, it’s becoming more and more obvious that many (if not most) adults experience some form of mental health issue at some point during their adult life.\\nFor many adults, the occurrence of depression and anxiety is consistent with family, work, and life stressors.\\nYoga nidra is a specific form of meditation that addresses stress and anxiety, the key components of mental health disorders. While there are traditional medical interventions available to people who suffer with mental health issues, they are often not sought out or continued by patients. \\nPrescription medications, hypnotherapy, psychotherapy, and similar interventions are costly, time consuming, and sometimes are only a temporary solution to the side effects of mental health disorders. \\nResearch shows that not only is yoga nidra safe and effective for treating anxiety and depression symptoms, it’s one of the few holistic complementary forms of therapy supported by conventional medical practitioners.\\nThis is why a good understanding of what yog nidra is and how a yoga nidra practice affects your mental health is important. So you can practice it knowing it’s backed by science!\\n\\nWhat is yoga nidra?\\nWe’ve covered this topic in other articles on the MyYogaTeacher blog as well, but in case you haven’t seen them, here’s a brief explanation!\\nYoga nidra is a form of meditation, usually guided. It’s also often known as “yogic sleep” and is, in fact, practiced lying down (great start, right?!). This ancient form of meditation is where the practitioner – that’s you – enters deep states of relaxation and transfers awareness from the outer world to their inner one.\\nYoga nidra is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from insomnia, burnout, PTSD, anxiety, and depression.\\nThis form of yoga is very different from other forms of meditation. It isn’t just about guided visualizations, affirmations, and yoga nidra is certainly not about daydreaming…or dreaming at all.\\nIn yoga nidra, the conscious mind remains active while the brain and body themselves reach a deep relaxation state. Most importantly, unlike in hypnosis, \\nyou\\n are always in control.\\n\\n\\nThe science behind benefits of yoga nidra\\nNow that you have a better understanding of what it is, we can discuss how yoga nidra works to improve your mental health!\\nYoga nidra and the autonomic nervous system\\nThe autonomic nervous system is the part of our body that regulates functions that don’t require conscious thought. Your heart beating, breathing, eyes blinking, digestion, and blood flow are a few examples.\\nThis system also includes our flight-or-fight response (sympathetic nervous system).\\nThe practice of yoga nidra meditation activates the \\npara\\nsympathetic nervous system – the opposite of the sympathetic nervous system. This is a part of your autonomic nervous system that controls our body’s ability to relax. When we relax deeply (such as when we’re in a dreamless sleep), our body is able to heal.\\nThis is why people who suffer from anxiety and depression often want to use sleep as a coping mechanism. Besides the fact that negative mental health states make you tired, sleeping is recovery.\\nHow does yoga nidra affect mental health?\\nA yoga nidra meditation practice allows your body to enter a sleep-like state while also maintaining control of your consciousness. This allows you to not only deeply relax but also rewire your mind (with the help of a yoga nidra instructor) to think and even behave differently.\\nSo your body gets to heal while you’re addressing the root cause of your mental health issues. No drugs. No pills. No nasty side effects from those types of medications. No costly visits to therapists unless you want to.\\nJust a reduction or elimination of anxiety, depression, and stress responses, which contribute to better mental \\nand\\n physical health.\\n\\nPhysiological side effects of better mental health\\nYour physiological body responds to your mental health. When you’re stressed, it releases cortisol, a hormone that causes inflammation. When you’re anxious, your blood pressure rises. When you’re experiencing post traumatic stress responses, your digestive system may almost completely stop working (temporarily anyway).\\nProlonged exposure to mental health issues is responsible for numerous health problems!\\nHeart attacks, strokes, hypertension, eating disorders, addiction to medications, chronic pain, headaches and migraines. So many things that lead to a shorter life span and impact your current quality of life.\\nYoga nidra meditation benefits include:\\n\\nBetter immune function\\nDecreased blood pressure\\nDecreased cortisol levels\\nImproved sleep\\nEnhanced memory and cognitive performance\\nReduction of chronic pain\\nDiminished symptoms of anxiety and depression\\nMore positive thought patterns\\nReduced or elimination of headaches\\nImproved digestion\\nPlus a whole host of others! \\nWho wouldn’t want to live a happier, healthier life with less stress, more mental clarity, and more optimism?\\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we’re passionate about whole body health. That includes mental and emotional health. And we feel very strongly that yoga is for everyone. Our expert and experienced yoga teachers are well-versed in many forms of meditation, and group classes dedicated to them are available to all of our members!\\nWe have 70+ expert yoga instructors, many who specialize in yoga therapy, meditation, or even have masters degrees in those same areas. They are experienced, kind, and truly care about your well being!\\nWe’d love to have you join our community and discover how meditation and mindfulness positively impacts your life!\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\\n\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your child’s faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about your chIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\n\n\n\n\n\\n"},"createdAt":"2022-04-20T21:39:20.573665+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["anxiety"]},{"title":"test","coverUrl":null,"slug":"test","content":{"text":"Yoga has been with me since childhood, in schools, and with my family as well. My father (late Mr.) Ramachandra, who was a teacher by profession, was an inspiration for me to dwell deep into the field of health and fitness. \\n\\nApple App Store Reviews: 4.9 out of 5 star rating - 1,010 reviews\\n\\n\\n\\nGoogle Play Store Reviews: 4.7 out of 5 star rating - 596 reviews\\n\\n\\n\n⁠\n⁠‘An investment in knowledge pays the best interest’\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nThe capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice. As my choice, when I was in Hong Kong as full-time dancer and part-time Yoga teacher, I quit my job and returned to motherland to deepen my knowledge in Yoga. \\n\\nNow I am a Yoga professional, holding a Master degree in Yoga (M.SC. Yoga) from Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (SVYASA University) and am a certified Level 2 Yoga Teacher from the Quality Council of India (QCI) AYUSH, Cleared NET (National Eligible test) in Yoga and also Ashtanga Vinyasa RYT 500 hour (Yoga alliance).\\n\\nAs a devotee of Nataraja (Shiva) who is known as the \"Lord of Dance\" and also a source of Yoga, I say dance and yoga goes hand in hand. Everything in this cosmos is dancing (motion) in coordination with energy (vital force).\\n\\nI have expertise in \\nHatha Yoga\\n, Yoga Therapy, Ashtanga \\nVinyasa Yoga\\n, \\nVinyasa Yoga\\n, \\nPower Yoga\\n, \\nYin Yoga\\n, Yin Yang Yoga, Shat kriyas (cleansing techniques), Pranayama, \\nMeditation\\n, Yogic Anatomy, and Yogic philosophy (Patanjali \\nYoga sutra\\n).\\n\\n‘We make living by what we get and we make life by what we give.’\\n\\nअन्नदानं महादानं विद्यादानमतः परम्।\\n\\nअन्नेन क्षणिका प्रीतिः यावज्जीवं च विद्यया॥\\n\\nannadānaṃ mahādānam vidyādānam ataḥ param।\\n\\nannena kṣaṇikā prītiḥ yāvajjīvaṃ ca vidyayā॥\\n\\nTranslation: Giving food is a great charity; but giving knowledge is a greater one. From the food we get momentary satisfaction. But from knowledge, it lasts the whole life.\\n\\nI strongle believe and follow above mentioned verse and I have decided already to give my best knowledge to as many people as possibe to make life joyful and peaceful.\\n"},"createdAt":"2021-12-28T09:20:38.860336+00:00","author":null,"category":["fitness","anxiety"]},{"title":"The Benefits of Humming Bee Breath: Tell Anxiety to Buzz Off","coverUrl":"gvhzqsh5gpbvdn4orxty.jpg","slug":"humming-bee-breath","content":{"text":"Yogic breathing is an important part of any meditation or yoga practice. Breath is life, and all the different forms of breath work are helpful for our physical, emotional, and mental health!\\nDid you know that most humans automatically revert to shallow breathing when they’re stressed?\\nWe don’t even realize it. Regular shallow breathing causes panic attacks, dry mouth, respiratory problems, tension in many areas of the body, and can be a precursor to cardiovascular problems. There are more reasons than one to learn different breathing techniques!\\nHumming Bee Breath is a unique yoga breathing technique that involves using sound on the exhalation. \\nThe sound and vibration of this type of breath, also known as Bhramari pranayama, soothes the tired, anxious, stressed out mind, releases tension, and allows the body to relax.\\nLet’s take a look at how to perform this simple bee breath technique!\\nHow to do Bhramari pranayama (Humming Bee Breath)\\nWe find that the best way to learn how to do something is by just doing it! \\nHowever, if, after trying it, you need more support or aren’t feeling the positive effects of this form of yogic breathing, we invite you to check out some of the many breathing and meditation-only practices offered on MyYogaTeacher! \\nIf you haven’t done so already, you can get a 2-week free trial here. No credit card needed!\\n\\nSo here we go! Steps to practicing this bee pranayama:\\n\\nFind a comfortable, seated position.\\n Many types of pranayama are practiced sitting on a cushion or blanket, cross-legged. However, we want you to feel comfortable practicing humming bee breath wherever and whenever you need to. So any comfortable seated position is fine for this pranayama.\\nClose your eyes.\\n Reducing the stimulation from your other senses will help you focus on your breathing and the buzzing sound of your exhales.\\nBreathe.\\n Take a few moments to just breathe slowly in and out through your nose. Intentionally relax your face, jaw, neck, and the rest of your body.\\nCover your ears. \\nGently place your pointer fingers into the tragus cartilage of your ears (NOT inside your ear) and close them off. It is also ok to cover them with the palms or heels of your hands if that’s more comfortable.\\nKeeping your ears blocked, \\ninhale deeply through your nose and exhale through your nose. On your exhale, make a humming sound, similar to a bee in tone.\\nContinue\\n this for 6-10 cycles of breath.\\nAs you’re breathing, stay focused on the sound of your breath, the humming, the vibration that comes from the humming. You want to find the balance between strong enough to feel it but gentle enough that it’s relaxing. See if you notice your face and jaw vibrating. This should feel soothing!\\n\\n\\nHumming Bee Breath Benefits\\nSomething you probably don’t know? The buzzing sound you make while practicing humming bee breath releases nitric oxide (NO). NO is produced in the paranasal sinuses and is inhaled when you breathe. It causes dilatation of your blood vessels, which increases how much oxygen your lungs take in internally. \\nHumming bee breath increases nitric oxide production 15 times that of what your body normally produces!\\nOn top of that, Bhramari pranayama benefits also include:\\n\\nReduced blood pressure\\nDecreased anger and agitation\\nElimination of anxiety\\nRelaxation of the central nervous system\\nReduced inflammation in the body\\nRegulation of the metabolism\\nBoosted immunity (NO kills viruses and bacteria)\\nRegulation of hormones\\n\\nStudies\\n have also revealed that humming bee breath can prevent and even assist with recovery from respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19!\\nHumming bee breath is one of the most powerful forms of yogic breathing that you can practice. There are numerous benefits!\\nIn the chaotic world we live in, it’s important – no, \\nimperative – \\nthat we participate consistently in various forms of self care. Yogic breathing practices are easy, convenient, and doable almost anywhere. For thousands of years, people have used breath work to improve their mental, physical, and emotional health.\\nWe hope you take some time to learn this effective breathing technique!\\nBee Breath precautions\\nWhile we have not heard or experienced any negative side effects of humming bee breath, we do advise the following precautions:\\n\\nDo not “plug” the openings of your ears with your fingers. Press gently on the tragus cartilage instead.\\nIf you have an ear infection, do not practice Bhramari pranayama.\\nDo not practice this form of breath work lying down. Sit in a comfortable position.\\nIt is not advised to practice humming bee breath if you’re pregnant.\\nBee breath should be practiced on an empty (or mostly empty stomach), in the morning before eating or 4-5 hours after eating.\\nBe sure to keep your lips gently pressed together while performing this pranayama. Mouth should stay closed.\\n\\n\\nIf you’re unsure about how to practice this form of yogic breathing, seek out a yoga instructor who is familiar with this technique. We wouldn’t want you to miss out on all the amazing benefits Bhramari pranayama offers!\\nMyYogaTeacher has many experienced, expert instructors who would be more than happy to help you master this technique! If you haven’t checked MYT out already, \\nget your 2-week free trial here\\n and join us on the mat in any or all of the 35+ yoga and meditation classes we offer!\\nSee you on the mat!\\n\\n"},"createdAt":"2021-11-15T14:06:25.868367+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["anxiety"]},{"title":"Migraine Sufferer? Try These 7 Poses That Relieve Migraine Pain","coverUrl":"irvzcafmlyvm1ru6wqxk.jpg","slug":"yoga-for-migraines","content":{"text":"If you’ve ever had a migraine, you’ll understand why it’s such a hot topic in the holistic health world. \\nGrab your 2-week free trial here and join us on the mat!\\n\\nEveryone’s looking for a remedy that is less expensive, less invasive, and comes with few or no side effects. Did you know that almost every single medication doctors prescribe to treat migraines was created specifically to treat something else?\\nSeizures, high blood pressure, heart problems. That’s what migraine drugs were created for. The fact that those drugs may often help with migraine pain came about as happenstance.\\nWe haven’t even gotten around to talking about other procedures to help with migraines, such as injections in the head, Botox injections, and even surgery.\\nNo wonder people are on the hunt for more natural remedies for migraines!\\nHere at My Yoga Teacher, we believe in the power of yoga to heal and help with all kinds of ailments, diseases, and pains.\\nThat’s why we wanted to give you some tried and true, easy yoga poses for migraine relief.\\nAnd if you haven’t checked out My Yoga Teacher yet, \\nhead on over and get your 2-week free trial here!\\n No credit card required. You’ll have access to tons of group yoga classes of all varieties, taught by experienced yoga teachers from India!\\n1. Child's Pose\\nChild’s pose not only stretches out the upper and lower back and shoulders, by placing your forehead on the floor, you’ll be activating pressure points that can help relieve migraine pain. If your migraine is derived from tension, that stretch from tailbone to fingertips will release those muscles and provide much needed relief!\\n>> Bring your big toes together, touching.\\n>> Walk your knees out wider than your hips, or the width of your mat.\\n>> Walk your fingertips forward on your mat and release your torso down to the floor between your knees or on your knees, depending on your level of flexibility.\\n>> Let your forehead rest on the floor or mat and rock your head gently side to side to activate those pressure points.\\n\\n\\n2. Cat-Cow Pose\\nThis pose boosts circulation while also relieving tension in your upper and lower back, as well as your neck, all areas where migraines can stem from. The increased circulation contributes to more blood flow and oxygen to the brain, helping to relieve migraine pain.\\n>> Start in neutral tabletop position, wrists, elbows, and shoulders all stacked evenly atop one another. Hips directly over your knees.\\n>> Inhale deeply and lift from your hips, drop your belly, as you slightly arch your back. Raise your head and gaze upwards.\\n>> On your exhale, slowly and smoothly move out of the arched back, through neutral spine. Tuck your chin to chest, tailbone under.\\n\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog\\nDownward facing dog pose is considered an inversion pose because your heart is above your head. This causes a reversal of blood flow and, hence, a rush of oxygenated blood to your brain.\\nFun fact:\\n Did you know that blood vessel constriction caused by excessive release of certain hormones contributes to the cause of migraine headaches? That’s why yoga poses that increase blood flow to the brain are helpful!\\n>> In tabletop position, tuck toes under and lift hips up and back, dropping your heels down towards your mat.\\n>> Press hands firmly onto mat and align your head between your arms.\\n>> Release your torso back towards your thighs.\\n\\n\\n4. Bridge Pose\\nBridge pose may not seem like the pose to do when you have a migraine, but it’s actually really beneficial for migraine relief. Another big reason for migraines is tension in your neck and shoulders. We all tend to hold tension in these areas, but especially if we work at a desk or do a lot of sitting!\\n>> Lie on your back, feet flat on the floor, knees up, arms down by your sides\\n>> Inhale and lift your hips up towards the ceiling.\\n>> Make a space between your chin and your chest and press the back of your head down onto the mat.\\n\\n\\n5. Ragdoll Pose (Forward Bend)\\nThis is also considered an inversion pose and reduces tension in the neck and body, decompresses the cervical spine, and allows for better circulation to the head and scalp. Ragdoll pose is like getting a hug from gravity! Everything gets a bit of release, which may be just what your head needs to feel better.\\n>> Spread feet hips’ distance apart (or wider if you’re comfortable with that), and hinge forward at the waist.\\n>> Drop your hands to the floor or you can hug opposite elbows. The crown of your head should be down towards the floor, dangling gently.\\n>> You may hang and let this pose be static, or you can gently sway from side to side.\\n\\n\\n6. Legs Up A Wall\\nWhile technically not an inversion pose, resting your legs up against a wall (or in mid air with a block underneath your hips) still allows the blood to flow more towards your head. This is an incredibly restorative pose. Plus the more blood flowing to your brain, the less pain from your migraine you’re likely to have.\\n>> Lie on your back and rest your legs up against a wall so they are perpendicular to your torso.\\n>> Flex your feet and toes so that they are parallel to your torso. Let your arms lay gently out by your sides.\\n\\n\\n7. Corpse Pose\\nEveryone loves corpse pose! Also called, Savasana, corpse pose is a restorative pose, a pose of relaxation and release of tension through breath and intention. After a long, hard day or a hard workout, Savasana is a perfect way to calm your nervous system and restore your body, which can also relieve migraine headache pain.\\n>> Lie flat on your back on your mat, or place a bolster or blanket under your knees if that’s more comfortable. Arms resting at your sides.\\n>> Let your eyes close as you begin focusing on your breath. Inhale and exhale slowly and deeply.\\n>> Stay here for at least 5 minutes.\\n\\n\\nWe really hope you find some migraine relief with these yoga poses! Pain is...well, a pain! And it stops you from feeling and being your best self. Yoga can help. A regular yoga practice may actually help prevent migraines from even happening.\\nWe invite you to try any or all of the 35+ different classes offered on My Yoga Teacher! The group classes are taught live by instructors who truly care about your wellbeing and who can advise you on how to live your best, healthiest life! \\nGrab your 2-week free trial here and join us on the mat!\\n\\n"},"createdAt":"2021-09-15T18:56:49.699743+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["yoga","anxiety","pain_management"]},{"title":"Healing for First Responders: How Yoga Helps Them Navigate Life Better","coverUrl":"ohsommfkjvr9qdvpagmc.jpg","slug":"yoga-for-first-responders","content":{"text":"First responders deserve all the awards and accolades we could possibly give them.\\nIf we took all the trophies from all the Oscars combined and gave them to first responders, it wouldn’t even begin to represent the respect, love, and support they deserve. And it certainly wouldn’t make up for how often these amazing superhumans are taken for granted.\\nFirefighters, 911 dispatchers, EMT’s, paramedics, and law enforcement officers. They’re all on the frontlines for us. Every day.\\nAn estimated 30% of first responders develop behavioral health conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression, compared to 20% for the general population.\\nThe mental health resources needed to help first responders process the trauma they see and experience on a daily basis are almost nonexistent.\\nThis is why a regular yoga practice is so important for these superheroes. \\nIf you haven’t checked out one of our recent posts on \\nHow Yoga Saves Lives\\n, you may want to read about our thoughts on the healthcare worker crisis in America and across the world right now.\\nBecause for first responders to keep doing what they do best, they need resources to help them navigate their life better, similar to healthcare workers.\\nHere’s how yoga can help these specific helpers!\\nYoga helps first responders handle personal turmoil better.\\nThe on-the-job experiences of first responders is largely responsible for their personal turmoil.\\nAs discussed previously, firefighters, EMS personnel, dispatchers, and police officers are all highly susceptible to PTSD, anxiety, depression, and are more likely to have substance abuse problems or commit suicide.\\nAs such, first responders may exhibit erratic behaviors, sudden onset of rage. They may startle more easily than civilians. They may be subject to more nightmares, sleep disturbances, and they may not be able to control their emotions well in their personal lives.\\nYoga for first responders is medicine for their weary souls.\\nHere are some facts about yoga that make it a perfect resource and tool for first responders:\\nIt only takes 3 minutes\\n of mindful breath work to calm the nervous system down after a triggering event, which makes it a perfect tool for first responders to use on the go or when they’re short on time.\\nYoga teaches you how to breathe\\n in a way that helps your body stop the production of cortisol and adrenaline, two things that are very unhealthy in large doses but prevalent in first responders.\\nYoga and meditation has been proven\\n to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and symptoms of PTSD.\\nStretching with awareness\\n relieves not only physical tension in the body but emotional and mental tension.\\nA first responder’s job often affects their personal life, their relationships with others, and their connection to their inner self. Because first responders tend to compartmentalize their work life and what they see and experience on the job (versus processing it), all of that trauma often overwhelms them.\\nWe definitely recommend regular meditation and breathwork for this group of amazing humans.\\nYoga helps first responders with the physical side effects of their job.\\nAs we’ve discussed in previous posts, this particular group of people use their bodies \\na lot\\n. They are sitting, standing, crawling, running, twisting, lifting, squatting. Often while carrying heavy equipment. \\nTheir job puts a lot of strain on their joints, muscles, and frame.\\nFirefighters, in particular, tend to suffer injury from their job, often in ways people don’t see. Like in their lungs.\\nWhile they do wear masks, firefighters are obviously exposed to smoke and air particle debris more than any other type of first responder, and definitely more than a civilian.\\nA regular yoga practice not only helps first responders stretch, strengthen, and tone their muscles so their bodies can move in all the ways they need it to, the breathwork included in almost every yoga practice helps improve lung function.\\nBecause yoga is so versatile and adaptable, breathwork and meditation (and even some yoga poses) can be done lying down in bed!\\nIn as little as 10 minutes, you can bring more awareness, calm, and harmony to your inner and outer self so that you can function better throughout the day. This kind of convenience  is a huge deal for first responders!\\nStarting out their day in a healthy state of mind with a body that is limber prevents mental and physical injury, whether they’re at work or not. Yoga is just an amazing way to start your day and a regular practice for first responders helps them process their world in a healthier way.\\nWhich means better relationships with others and more inner peace. \\nRegular mindful breathwork also:\\nIncreases stamina\\nImproves shortness of breath\\nBuilds endurance\\nIncreases muscle strength\\nImproves digestion\\nThe healthier first responders can keep their bodies, the better! \\nWhy first responders should seriously consider a regular yoga practice\\nThis sounds like it should be a blog post all it’s own. But we definitely wanted to stress the importance of a regular yoga practice for first responders.\\nAnd many times there are misconceptions about yoga that lead people to believe that it won’t work for them, or rather that yoga “isn’t for them.” \\nThe truth is, yoga is for everyone, but \\nespecially \\nfor people in high risk, adrenaline pumping jobs like first responders. So here are 5 reasons why they should seriously consider integrating a regular yoga practice into their routine.\\nYoga helps people make better gut decisions in intense situations where there may not be a lot of time to consider the pros and cons. Yogis rely on their all-knowing intuition more.\\nYoga increases people’s ability to focus and problem-solve, two important aspects of a first responder’s life!\\nBreathwork and meditation is simple and effective. It can even be performed in between calls, in a car or truck, and makes a huge difference in your mental health.\\nYoga is multifunctional. It doesn’t just strengthen, lengthen, and tone your body. It helps prevent injury, builds resilience, enhances mental and physical performance, and reduces stress.\\nPeople who practice yoga actually experience positive biological changes such as reduced markers for disease, reduced overall inflammation, and reversal of the onset of diseases.\\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we offer a huge variety of of yoga classes and \\nworkshops\\n for people from all walks of life, all shapes, sizes, and abilities. Not only that, but all our classes are taught live and virtually (and at all times of day and night) so you can experience them from wherever in the world you may be!\\nAdditionally, our classes are taught by experienced expert instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. And they all truly care about your health and wellbeing. If you haven’t jumped on the My Yoga Teacher bandwagon yet, we would love to have you! \\nGet your 2-week free trial here and join us!\\n"},"createdAt":"2021-09-10T16:37:50.582066+00:00","author":{"name":"will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["yoga","fitness","anxiety","mental_health"]},{"title":"Improving Lung Function: How Yogic Breathing Helps Asthmatics","coverUrl":"cjsiteos23b0e7wtxfem.jpg","slug":"yoga-breathing-for-asthma","content":{"text":"With the quality of our air decreasing due to climate change, continued use of air pollutants, and worldwide wildfires, breathing can be difficult (even harmful if outside) on a good day for people with perfectly healthy lungs.\\nHowever, the air quality creates distinct problems for people who suffer from asthma.\\nIf you’ve never felt the constriction of your lungs and bronchi due to bronchitis, pneumonia or asthma, there is almost no feeling worse than the struggle to breathe, to bring oxygen into your body. Something that should be easy can be very difficult for a lot of people.\\nBut particularly for asthmatics.\\nThat’s why I wanted to create a class specifically for them, or anyone else who has breathing issues! My class, \\nTherapeutic Yoga for Asthma and Sinus\\n teaches yogis breathwork that will improve lung function and help them breathe better when breathing is hard.\\nYou can find my class and many more on My Yoga Teacher! If you haven’t signed up yet, \\nyou can grab your 2-week free trial here and try mine and 35+ other types of yoga classes\\n. There’s something for everyone!\\nI want to talk about how yogic breathing helps people breathe better, particularly those suffering with asthma.\\nInspiration vs. Expiration\\nFor people with asthma, inhaling is not typically the initial problem with their breathing. Expiration is. The act of exhaling.\\nWhen an asthma patient inhales and an asthma attack is triggered, the bronchi constrict, making force necessary for exhaling. Normally, expiration is a passive process for our body. The pressure inside the lungs releases similar to poking a hole in a balloon.\\nMany things can trigger an asthma attack. Cold air, smoke, foreign particles in the air, pollen, stress, even strong odors or chemical smells.\\nVarious types of yogic breathing help asthma sufferers reduce stress that so often trigger an attack, but also teaches them how to control their breathing, particularly their exhalation. Studies have even shown that different forms of chanting with exhalation are also effective in helping asthmatics breathe better.\\nTypes of pranayama for asthmatics\\nAll forms of yoga incorporate breathwork. That’s because yoga is an all-encompassing practice of bringing harmony to your inner and outer world. Part of that process is how we bring oxygen and nutrients to all parts of our body.\\nBreathing is life.\\nIn yoga, breath is referred to as pranayama, and there are lots of different types. Here are some that studies have shown to be effective in helping treat asthma symptoms.\\nSasankasana pranayama\\nIn patients with mild-to-moderate asthma, this form of breath work is beneficial. \\nTo perform this type of breath, you’ll begin in Thunderbolt Pose, simply sitting on your knees, glutes resting on bottoms of your feet or calves. If this is uncomfortable due to knee issues, you can place a block, blanket, or bolster between your calves and glutes for support.\\nWhile inhaling, raise both arms up, palms facing out. Arch backwards gently.\\nWhen you exhale, bring arms down to the ground, reaching back towards your feet/heels, lifting your body up off your support or calves and bend over so the crown of your head (or forehead) is facing the floor, or touching it (see image below).\\nThere are several variations of this form of breathing, but this is the simplest and easiest to do when an asthma attack occurs.\\n\\n\\nAnuloma viloma pranayama (alternate nostril breathing)\\nOften thought of as the antidote to stress, this form of breath work does take some practice and effort, but has also been shown to be an effective form of breathing for asthma sufferers.\\nBesides creating an almost immediate sense of calm and serenity, which helps panicky asthma sufferers, this type of breathing also:\\nOptimizes lung function\\nReduces snoring\\nHelps with insomnia\\nHelps treat migraines\\nAssists with weight management\\nHere are the steps to perform this type of breathing exercise. You may not be able to do more than a few rounds of this form of breath work in the beginning, but keep practicing! It does get easier the more you do it. And the more you practice, the more you benefit from it.\\nClose your right nostril (following the image below) and inhale through your left to a count of 4.\\nPinch both nostrils closed and hold the breath to a count of 16.\\nRelease your right nostril and exhale fully through it to a count of 8.\\nKeeping this position with your left nostril closed, inhale through your right to a count of 4.\\nNow close both nostrils and hold the breath to a count of 16.\\nRelease your left nostril and exhale fully through it to a count of 8.\\n\\n\\nBhramari pranayama\\nBhramari means the “Goddess of Bees.” Ironically, bees are huge bringers of life to our world! Which makes this practice even sweeter! \\nAlso known as Bumblebee Breath, Bhramari pranayama is a particularly calming form of breath that also includes a buzzing sound (made by you, of course). It also is a way to instantly rid yourself of anxiety, stress, or agitation.\\nWhile making a high pitched buzzing sound upon exhalation may seem strange to you, it is very effective. Bumblebee Breath is focused on forced expiration, which is why we advise it specifically for asthma patients.\\nI highly recommend this breathing technique be taught to you by a yoga instructor who is well-versed in yogic breathing techniques. There are absolutely no contraindications, but if it’s not done correctly, this breathing technique won’t be effective.\\nInterested in learning more about this one? Shoot me a message when you sign up for my \\nTherapeutic Yoga for Asthma and Sinus class!\\n We’ll work on it together!\\nModified Omkar pranayama\\nThis breathing exercise is commonly associated with meditation. But the modified version of omkara is perfect for asthma sufferers, particularly when they are actually experiencing an asthma attack.\\nOmkar pranayama includes the practice of chanting, which is why it is traditionally practiced while meditating. However, in this modified version, the focus is almost entirely on exhaling the breath while simultaneously producing sound. In fact, changes in this form of breath work are made to focus solely on expiration, keeping in mind that asthmatics struggle with expiration the most.\\nThe normal AUM chant that is performed before, or more often, after a meditation practice, is modified slightly to a higher pitched sound with more forceful exhalation.\\nThis is another breathing technique that I advise you consult an experienced yoga instructor about!\\nConscious breathwork improves lung function. So do lots of different types of yoga! Yin yoga, Hatha Yoga, and Power Yoga are three forms of yoga that are particularly effective at helping asthma sufferers build their lung capacity, open their chest, and strengthen the muscles surrounding their lungs.\\nIf you haven’t made the decision to join My Yoga Teacher yet, we’d definitely love to have you! Many of our yoga instructors have higher levels of education in all types of health and wellness on top of their extensive training in yoga and meditation practices. \\nGrab your free 2-week trial here and join us\\n for one or many of the various live group classes offered!."},"createdAt":"2021-08-26T11:36:26.257024+00:00","author":{"name":"Neelami","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["therapy","anxiety","restorative"]},{"title":"How Yoga Saves Lives: The Worldwide Healthcare Worker Crisis","coverUrl":"mupo4iuwsrf0ixf58pxf.jpg","slug":"yoga-for-healthcare-workers","content":{"text":"It’s not new news that the world is suffering. But this centuries old story seems to just be getting worse and worse as the years progress.\\nFires, hurricanes, tsunamis, war. And then, of course, “the pandemic.” \\nBut through all of this strife and trauma, healthcare workers remain steadfast in their efforts to save lives. Be the helpers. \\nHere at \\nMy Yoga Teacher\\n, we are all about looking for the good, seeking out the helpers. There are always people doing their part to save people and planet. But who is saving \\nthem\\n?\\nFor healthcare workers worldwide, burnout is becoming a pandemic all its own.\\nThey’re tired. More than tired. They are beyond exhausted. They’re sad, angry, hungry, thirsty, and stressed. They are missing their families. Healthcare workers are working under extreme pressure with limited resources in many instances.\\nWhat happens when they’re done? When they just can’t save any other life but their own?\\nYoga isn’t a cure all, of course. But a consistent, regular yoga practice can work wonders for preventing burnout in healthcare workers worldwide. Yoga is an easily accessible, inexhaustible resource they can use any time of day or night, in almost any type of space, to combat burnout, depression, anxiety, stress.Yoga is capable of rejuvenating their body, mind and spirit. \\nWhile specialists around the world are creating new ways for them to overcome the challenges of their profession, we want to pay tribute to all our amazing superhero healthcare professionals by discussing how yoga can help them continue to do what they do.\\nYoga battles the effects of battlefield medicine\\nThe fight against COVID has often been compared to battlefield medicine.\\nHealthcare professionals are having seemingly endless encounters with sick patients, in a high risk environment. They’re fighting an invisible enemy with inadequate resources while battling extreme mental and physical fatigue. \\nThis makes developing a consistent yoga and meditation practice all the more important, possibly even critical.\\nVirtual yoga could be a salvation for the people saving lives. Literally. \\nIf you haven’t signed up for My Yoga Teacher yet, \\nwe offer a free 2-week trial\\n where you can try out any or all of our 35+ yoga classes offered at all different hours of day and night! Every virtual class is a respite for tired souls.\n\nYoga helps healthcare workers by calming their nervous system down, reducing their cortisol levels, eliminating overwhelm and creating peace amidst the chaos. Yoga reduces the impact of exaggerated stress responses, preventing or alleviating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression. All of which healthcare workers are highly susceptible to, particularly during these chaotic times.\\nYoga prevents stress, emotional, and excessive eating\\nIf you’ve ever done shift work, you’ll understand how it throws off your circadian rhythm and eating habits. \\nMany healthcare professionals work anywhere from 12-72 hour shifts. They almost never get off of work on time, and they don’t often get a chance to have a real meal, instead snacking or filling up on caffeinated beverages with virtually no nutritional value.\\nThis irregular pattern of eating (or \\nnot\\n eating) under really stressful and even traumatic circumstances often leads healthcare professionals to stress eat, emotional eat, or overeat once they have an opportunity to.\\nYoga can help healthcare workers get the nutrition they need while not overeating! Because yoga helps lower stress levels and brings more self awareness, people who participate in a regular yoga practice eat more fruits and vegetables, have healthier food cravings, and are better able to manage emotional eating.\\nAnd because bad eating habits affect sleep, contribute to weight gain, and don’t provide sustainable energy, yoga inadvertently alleviates the need to carb load and fill up on foods that contain refined sugars. Which is a common tactic of healthcare workers when they’re exhausted.\\nSo to recap a bit, consistent yoga practice not only \\nprevents\\n bad eating habits, it plays a huge role in increasing energy, getting better sleep, and not gaining unnecessary weight!\\nWhich leads us to…\\nYoga for healthcare worker bodies\\nHealthcare professionals are notoriously known to exert a lot of physical energy for their jobs. They’re lifting and moving people from one location to another, spending hours upon hours on their feet, bending, stooping, twisting.\\nIt’s imperative they stay in optimal physical condition. Yet, so many aren’t. Why?\\nWell, besides the fact they typically aren’t eating to fuel their bodies, getting enough sleep, or handling their stress well, they just don’t have time. Or are too exhausted to make time.\\nThe good news about yoga is you don’t need a lot of time and, as we’ve said before, don’t need a lot of space or equipment.\\nThere are so many different types of yoga. Most forms strengthen, lengthen, and tone the body. But even yoga that is focused solely on flexibility is great for healthcare workers. The stronger and more flexible their bodies are the more likely they are to not get injured. \\nWhich means they can keep saving lives!\\nHere at My Yoga Teacher, we believe any type of yoga is good yoga, but here are some specific types of yoga we believe would be specifically beneficial for healthcare workers and what it’s best for:\\nPower Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, and Bikram Yoga - These are all challenging forms of yoga and equate to vigorous exercise. All poses are doable (or modifiable) for any fitness level or body shape. These types of yoga burn just as many calories as any cycling or kickboxing class, but you still get the meditative benefits!\\nHatha Yoga, Anasura Yoga, and Iyengar Yoga - These are all gentle forms of yoga, slow moving and are more focused on the actual poses, the stretch, and gaining flexibility. While all forms of yoga include breath work, these forms of yoga are particularly focused on breathing, releasing tension and stress.\\nRestorative Yoga - This form of yoga typically includes the use of props such as bolsters, blocks, blankets and straps and is very focused on restoring the mind, body, and spirit.\\nPracticing yoga as little as 15-20 minutes a day three times a week improves flexibility, strength, and mobility. While most of the classes at My Yoga Teacher are longer than that, your yoga practice is just that...yours. \\nThat means you can do as little or as much of any class as you want or have time for!\\nIf you haven’t checked out My Yoga Teacher yet, you definitely should give it a try! Especially if you’re a healthcare worker! There is a class for everyone, group and 1:1 classes available. Most all are taught by expert yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India. We pride ourselves in offering premium yoga classes you simply can’t find anywhere else! \\nGrab your 2-week free trial here and join us on the mat, wherever in the world you may be!\\n\\nNamaste.\\n\n\n\n"},"createdAt":"2021-08-21T03:23:17.053441+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["fitness","anxiety"]},{"title":"Allopathic vs. Naturopathic Medicine: Why the Differences Matter for Your Health","coverUrl":"j2twzwxjpwvl5hecvdzj.jpg","slug":"different-types-of-medicine","content":{"text":"You may not know what “allopathic” even means. That’s ok because we’re about to tell you.\\nWhy? \\nHere at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n we believe the differences between allopathic medicine and naturopathic medicine means the difference in you feeling wholly and completely well and just “not sick.”\\nAllopathic medicine is more commonly known as conventional medicine, traditional medicine, western medicine. You may also hear it referred to as orthodox, biomedicine, or mainstream.\\nBecause all forms of yoga are considered naturopathic medicine, we felt it was important to address the various roles of the two different forms of medicine and why we’re fans of both.\\nAlso, whether you’re a new yogi, advanced yogi, or haven’t started a yoga journey at all, we invite you to learn more about myYogaTeacher and the multitude of different classes our incredibly talented, expert instructors offer. \\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nLet’s cover how these two types of medicine differ and why you should care!\\nCore differences in allopathic and naturopathic medicine\\n\n⁠Allopathic vs Naturopathic\\nAllopathic\\n means “opposite of suffering” in Greek. The term was coined by a German physician in the 1800’s and references what traditional medicine does. Treat a symptom with its opposite.\\nFor instance, you may treat a headache with ibuprofen or constipation with a laxative.\\nAllopathy is practiced by doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other medical professionals licensed to practice and treat symptoms of diseases.\\nTypes of treatment may include:\\nSurgery\\nRadiation\\nMedications (over the counter and prescribed or controlled drugs)\\nAnd other therapies\\nThere is certainly a place for some of these treatments. For instance, a trauma victim from a car accident may need surgery to repair the body. A cancer patient may need chemotherapy to kill cancer cells. A person may have a genetic illness that requires medications and other therapies to control it so they can live a normal life.\\nBut almost all allopathic medical treatments come with adverse side effects. Medications to treat symptoms of a disease may, in fact, propagate another disease or cause other terrible symptoms. Radiation has horrible side effects. And, it goes without saying, recovering from surgeries can be extensive and involve toxic medications.\\nHowever, increasingly, doctors are recognizing the value in naturopathic medicine.\\nYou may hear naturopathic medicine referred to as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), holistic medicine, or integrative medicine.\n⁠\\nNaturopathic\\n medicine is commonly used alongside allopathic medicine to treat many types of illness and disease. But where allopathic medicine only treats the symptoms of a problem, naturopathic medicine treats the \\ncause\\n of the problem or prevents the problem to begin with!\\nIn other words, it treats the whole body. And, of course, it’s natural in origin.\\nSome types of naturopathic medicine or treatment include:\\nChiropractic care\\nAcupuncture\\nAyurveda\\nHomeopathy\\nYoga\\nWe’ve talked about many ways yoga improves a person’s whole life, curing back pain, knee pain, reducing blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. It improves mental health and can even cure mental health problems.\\nSo it goes without saying that each form of naturopathic treatment is also designed to be just as comprehensive!\\nEven better news? Most naturopathic medicine treatments have zero adverse side effects! And they usually don’t interfere with other forms of treatment!\\nAllopathic medicine just doesn’t treat the whole body like naturopathic medicine does, only the symptoms of underlying problems.\\nBut, as we’ve discussed, both forms of medicine are extremely important.\\nPreventative care of allopathic vs naturopathic medicine\\nComplementary and alternative medicine is a key ingredient to preventing many types of illness and disease. \\nTraditional medicine has its own way of preventing various diseases as well. But usually, the methods of prevention come at cost to the patient’s health in other ways. And many of the prevention methods would be completely unnecessary if people focused more on holistic health.\\nFor instance, here are some preventative measures of conventional medicine:\\nVaccines\\n - prevent serious, life-threatening diseases and illnesses in children and adults but also a very controversial topic in the traditional and alternative medicine world.\\nBlood pressure medications\\n - lower blood pressure to prevent heart disease and heart complications, but high or low blood pressure is only a symptom of an underlying problem.\\nAnxiety and depression medications\\n - while helpful in regulating chemicals that prevent harmful thoughts and actions, these do not address the fact that many mental health problems could be fixed with better gut health.\\nThese are just a few examples of preventative care in traditional medicine. There are also less invasive forms, such as cancer screenings, cholesterol tests, blood pressure monitoring, and well-child visits. These types of preventative care do, undoubtedly, save lives. \\nNaturopathic care saves lives too! \\nYou see, some of the preventative care included in allopathic medical practice would be completely unnecessary if people practiced more holistic health.\\nFor example, here are some ways naturopathic medicine prevents illness and disease:\\nMassage therapy\\n - boosts immune system, flushes out toxins, reduces inflammation in the body, zero negative side effects.\\nChiropractic care\\n - boosts immune system, cures headaches, improves energy levels, helps brain and organs communicate better, helps with skeletal problems like arthritis and joint discomforts.\\nYoga and meditation\\n - Improves weight, stress levels, alleviates mental health problems, decreases or cures pain in the body, decreases inflammation, improves gut health, prevents a multitude of illnesses and diseases.\\nNatural supplements and a whole food diet\\n - can help prevent most common illnesses and diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, mental health issues, and even cancer.\\nYou see? If we spent more time on selfcare, doing things that make our whole body, mind, and soul feel better, we’d spend less time seeking out ways to treat the symptoms of our diseases. Because many of them simply wouldn’t occur.\\nAnd that is the biggest difference between traditional preventative medicine and that of naturopathic medicine. \\nOne is \\nstill\\n just treating the symptoms and possibly causing more problems. And the other is treating the whole body.\\nIt’s interesting that so many people prefer conventional medicine practices because they are “backed by science” when thousands of years of history has proven over and over again that holistic medicine is real and valid. And it works.\\nMaybe you only need a natural approach to health. Or maybe you are dead set on conventional medicine alone.\\nMaybe you need both.\\nWe need both \\nAs mentioned above, allopathic medicine is important. It saves lives. There is a time and place for it. It is a reactive form of medicine for times of crisis, acute illness, and injury.\\nNaturopathic medicine focuses on preventing those times of crisis, acute illness, and injury. There are many things that alternative medicine treats. But the goal is to use the most natural methods possible to create homeostasis and connection between the inner and outer world of humans. \\nWhere allopathic medicine is \\nreactive\\n, naturopathic medicine \\nproactive\\n. \\nWhatever your health situation may be, we hope that you allow MyYogaTeacher be a part of your journey to better health and wellbeing. Our \\nonline yoga\\n studio is a judgement free zone where people come together and celebrate how amazing their bodies (and yoga) are. A place where the instructors get to know their students and help them in more ways than just on the mat.\\nIf you haven’t joined yet, we hope you’ll \\ntake advantage of myYogaTeacher’s 2-week free trial\\n, where you’ll have access to over 42 different classes and experienced yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India!\\nJoin us!"},"createdAt":"2021-08-13T17:46:01.516367+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["therapy","anxiety"]},{"title":"10 Things You Should Know Before You Start Meditating","coverUrl":"rimflxvurbzhsoxolcr2.jpg","slug":"before-you-meditate","content":{"text":"We all want that experience that experienced meditators talk about.\\nThat magical time when you’re totally and completely relaxed and in a sort of euphoric, beautiful state. It’s calm and quiet. You’re centered and grounded.\\nBut it’s not actual magic.\\nA meditation practice takes...well, practice. It doesn’t come naturally to most people. But the more you do it, the easier it gets, and the more benefit you receive from it.\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nA deep meditation is amazing. But here’s what you should know before starting your journey.\\n1. Don’t expect to have a blank mind.\\nIt is the brain’s natural state to jump from thought to thought to thought. The purpose of meditation isn’t to create a blank mind but to become more aware of the thoughts you’re having and guide your mind back to your meditation practice.\\nMany types of meditation actually emphasize the art of being mindful of thoughts as they arise.\\n2. You don’t need to sit in a particular position.\\nWhile it is often recommended that you sit or lay on the floor or ground, it isn’t necessary. It’s more important to be comfortable and in a place or position that helps you feel grounded. \\nOf note, unless it’s a sleep meditation or body scan meditation, lying down during your meditation practice might not be your best option. Unless you don’t mind falling asleep!\\n3. Meditation comes with health perks.\\nOne of our other instructors discussed this in their article, but we can’t emphasize this enough. Meditation helps reduce stress, blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. It improves sleep, increases feelings of wellbeing and happiness, and boosts the immune system.\\nA regular meditation practice can even help you kick smoking or alcohol addictions to the curb!\\n4. Meditation actually changes your brain.\\nIt’s true, meditation is scientifically proven to alter your brain...in a good way! \\nStudies show that mindfulness practices thicken  the prefrontal cortex of the brain which is responsible for things like concentration and awareness. In this case, thicker is a good thing.\\nAlso, meditation is proven to reduce the brain’s fight or flight response. This means your body responds better to stress resulting in lower cortisol levels and better health.\\n5. Lots of famous people you’ve heard of meditate!\\nI’m sure you knew Oprah meditates. That is a given.\\nBut did you know that Paul McCartney, Jerry Seinfield, Howard Stern, Barbara Walters, Bill Gates, Michael Jordan, Will Smith and even Clint Eastwood also meditate?!\\nAnd they don’t mind letting people know about it either. They understand the power of meditating!\\n6. You may not think you’re doing it right the first time.\\nIt’s ok.\\nThe first time you meditate may feel awkward, strange, uncomfortable. It may just feel like you’re doing it wrong.\\nYou may feel like this the second or third or even fourth time. Stick with it. Just like your yoga practice or anything else you want to be better at, the more you practice, the better you’ll get.\\nThe better you get, the more benefits you’ll experience.\\n7. Reflect on how you feel.\\nIt’ll be important, especially during the early days of your practice, to take a step back and reflect on how you feel in between practices.\\nIt is not uncommon to feel bored, discouraged, or distracted during or after a meditation session. Hopefully, as you go, you’ll have more times of feeling happy, energized, relaxed and calm. Either way, take note of how your days and weeks go.\\nYou might be surprised how quickly you start to experience the benefits of meditation.\\n8. You don’t need a mantra, and you don’t have to chant.\\nSome people are wary of meditating because they’re uncomfortable with chanting or having a mantra. They just want to be silent.\\nAnd that’s totally fine.\\nMantras, chanting, and sound are tools many people use to facilitate their meditation practice. But they aren’t necessary to reaping the rewards of one. However, your mind will have a tendency to wander. It’s completely normal. And a mantra, chanting, or even just counting your breaths will help bring your mind back to your practice.\\n9. You can meditate with a purpose or for general health.\\nThere are many types of meditation, but there are many more ways to practice those different types. \\nSome people meditate specifically to ease anxiety, depression, or to reduce their stress levels. Maybe they want to become more grateful, kind, or compassionate. There are plenty of specific reasons for one to meditate.\\nIt’s also completely ok to meditate for wellness. \\n10. You DO have time.\\nYou want to know the truth?\\nWe make time for the things that are important to us. No matter what that is. \\nIncorporating meditation into your daily life doesn’t have to be overwhelming or time-consuming. Even 5 minutes a day can be beneficial. And you’ll probably find that after a while, 5 minutes a day won’t feel like enough and you’ll be more inclined to carve out more time for an even deeper meditation practice.\\nIf you’re new to meditation, start with shorter increments and see how you feel!\\nThere are many ways to learn how to meditate, and the world is your oyster when it comes to all the varieties of meditation practices. It can be hard to choose what’s best for you when you’re new to it.\\nI encourage you to try some of the breathing and meditation classes offered on myYogaTeacher! If you’re a member, you may have already tried some of them. If not, \\nclick here to grab your free 2-week trial\\n! All of the instructors at myYogaTeacher are experts in yoga and meditation and most come from the birthplace of yoga and meditation, India! We’d love for you to have an authentic meditation experience!"},"createdAt":"2021-07-08T14:12:47.965022+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["anxiety","meditation"]},{"title":"Five Ways Meditation Can Start Improving Your Life Right Now","coverUrl":"uhdar3thpz9nzwzopvqv.jpg","slug":"meditate-for-health","content":{"text":"Whether you’re into yoga or not, I’m fairly certain you’ve at least heard of meditation. It’s one of the (oldest) new ways to improve your life. \\nAnd people are beginning to catch on.\\nThe truth is there are some really \\nmajor\\n \\nbenefits\\n to meditation (yoga is included, by the way). \\nAnd science agrees. \\nBefore I get to the scientific evidence that meditation can improve your life significantly, let’s just address the fact that, for the most part, I’m excited to offer a \\nBreathing and Meditation\\n class with myYoga Teacher!\\nIf you’re not yet a member, it’s definitely worth your time to \\ngrab a free 2-wee trial of MYT\\n. You’ll have access to my class and 35+ more!\\nAlso, more and more people are looking to alternative health\\n \\npractices, products, and practitioners to improve their lives. \\nWhy? Well, everyone has their own reasons I suppose. But mostly it’s because they’re tired of feeling crappy. And whether their traditional forms of medicine are helping or not, there are side effects to all of them that make them feel terrible in ways they maybe weren’t before. Also, most people can agree, natural remedies, when available and helpful (not harmful) are just better for us. \\nWith all that in mind, let’s get to the science behind it all.\\nANXIETY, DEPRESSION, AND INSOMNIA\\nAnxiety and depression is a big deal.  Lots of people are crippled by it on a day to day basis. Did you know that according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 \\nmillion\\n American adults suffer from an anxiety disorder? That’s about 18% of the population of the U.S. And it’s \\nnot \\nall in their heads. \\nIf you struggle with anxiety or depression, you are most certainly not alone, and you are definitely not the only one looking to alternative health practices to help alleviate your symptoms. Actually, congratulations! If you’re reading this, you’re taking an active, healthy step in overcoming your anxiety and/or depression! \\nAccording to PubMed (a highly regarded medical database of the National Institute for Health), regular practice of meditation over a period of 8 weeks or more will improve your anxiety and depression. Score one for alternative (or complementary) health! In case you aren’t aware, complementary health is a term used to describe alternative therapies that are used in conjunction with traditional ones.\\nSo give meditation a chance to work if you try it at all. Don’t give up on it after a couple of times! \\nAlso, I am in \\nno way\\n saying you should stop whatever your traditional doctor has prescribed for you and replace it with meditation. I’m simply telling you meditation is an excellent addition to help alleviate symptoms. If you love it and it works, then maybe you can talk with your doctor about your medication management.\\nThere are many different types of meditation that are good for anxiety, depression, and insomnia.  Here are a few popular ones:\\nBody scan or progressive relaxation\\n:  This type of meditation is a practice in mindfully releasing tension in various parts of the body.  Normally starting at the head and moving to the toes.\\nMetta Meditation\\n:  Metta Meditation is also known as loving-kindness meditation.  The goal is to create an attitude of love and kindness towards everything, including stressors.  It generally includes repeating affirmations.\\nMindfulness Meditation\\n:  This form of meditation assists practitioners in focusing heavily on the present and existing surroundings.  Not past or future.  It’s the most widely used form of meditation currently, primarily because it can be done almost anywhere at any time.\\nFor beginners, a guided version of any of these three would be the most beneficial.  But even regular, long-term practitioners often still use guidance in their meditation practices.\\nAnother way meditation and breathwork helps people?\\nPAIN MANAGEMENT\\nBefore you say anything, I completely understand some types of pain are not “cured” by meditation. There \\nARE\\n other possible alternative therapies to assist with pain that are not traditional medicine or pharmaceutical related though, but that’s a different topic. \\nI’ll stay on track by saying the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) has conducted several studies that reveal that mindfulness meditation, mindfulness-based stress reduction training (MBSR), and Cognitive Behavioral Training (CBT) all help reduce pain, particularly back and neck pain, but also many other types of pain. \\nIn some studies, “...scientists suggest that meditation activates certain areas of the brain in response to pain.” (NCCIH) \\nMost people who have chronic pain are willing to try almost anything. Trying something not harmful with zero side effects equals \\nZERO \\nrisk.\\nYoga is also particularly great for pain management of some conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, arthritis, and low back pain.  \\nAshtanga\\n, \\nBikram\\n, \\nKundalini\\n, and hot yoga are all various types of yoga that assist with pain management.  If you have questions or concerns about chronic pain, you should \\nfirst speak with your physician.\\nAlso, lots of people suffer with more than one problem. I’d go so far as to say \\nmost\\n people do. Meditate on it. Boom. Killing two birds with one stone! \\nOr check out my Breathing and Meditation class for a simple, restorative practice for beginners.\\nTHE POWER OF POSITIVE THINKING\\nVery, cliche, I know. But emotional health DOES matter! \\nSome other benefits people notice are:\\nMore calm throughout the day, less stressed..\\nMore patience, compassion, and kindness.\\nReduced emotional eating. \\nMoney savings from reduced emotional eating.\\nAccording to studies done by the National Institute for Health, various different forms of meditation have been proven to improve one’s emotional well-being and overall mental health. I encourage you to do some research on what types of meditation would be most helpful for you, but some suggestions are Kindness-Based Meditation and guided mindfulness meditation. Which leads me to my next point.\\nKINDNESS\\nResearch published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology suggests that mindful meditation practices inspire people to be more empathetic and nicer to strangers.\\nHave you ever heard that f you’re looking for the negative, you’ll find it? If you’re looking for the bad in your life or just waiting for something bad to happen, you are finding it. Negativity attracts negativity. You may not even want to be kind because you’re so cynical right now. \\nThe news is mostly negative. \\nFacebook is a lot of negative. \\nRoad rage. \\nWaiting-in-line rage. I read once you are a culmination of the 5 people you surround yourself with the most. And what comes out of all of that is your contribution to unkindly behavior, words, and attitudes. \\nYou \\ncan\\n escape this pattern. I know because I did. Meditation makes me a nicer person. It’s improved my relationship with my husband and kids. I have less (almost none, actually) road rage and waiting-in-line rage. And I encourage myself and others daily to focus on the positive parts of their day or life. And honestly, that is almost solely due to guided mindfulness meditation practices. I am more peaceful, calm, content. And those feelings and attitudes produce more compassion, kindness, and empathy. \\nEVERYONE\\n can use more of those things. \\nThis one \\ndoes\\n take work and practice. It’s not an overnight sort of “fix.” But if you dare to “open” your mind to it, it’s really not hogwash. And it can apply to everyone, from \\nall\\n walks of life.\\n BLOOD PRESSURE — IT’S IMPORTANT!\\nThis one is last primarily because addressing all of the above concerns is scientifically proven to help lower your blood pressure. But people completely underestimate the importance of having good blood pressure! \\nAccording to the NIH, hypertension affects nearly \\n1 billion\\n people worldwide and results in 7.1 million deaths. The studies suggest that interventions such as meditation used either alone or with lifestyle changes has been shown to help decrease blood pressure.\\nMeditation is \\nnot a\\n “cure-all” for high blood pressure, so don’t do it in lieu of seeing your doctor. But it’s scientifically proven to help lower it. According to the NCCIH, “A literature review and scientific statement from the American Heart Association suggest that evidence supports the use of Transcendental Meditation (TM) to lower blood pressure.” The American Heart Association website also has many other helpful (and practical) tips about lowering your blood pressure, in case you’re in need of another free resource that gives free advice on how to get (or stay) healthy without breaking the bank.\\nNot sure how to begin your practice of meditation and breathwork? Join us in my \\nBreathing and Meditation class\\n! All are welcome, and we’ll journey to better health through meditation together.\\nIt’s also a perfect reason to go ahead and \\nscoop up your free 2-week trial of myYogaTeacher\\n! You’ll find all the support you need there from experts in yoga and meditation who are happy to help you navigate your path to better health, less stress, and more harmony!\\nLove, light, and peace!"},"createdAt":"2021-07-01T19:53:37.651367+00:00","author":{"name":"Trupti","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["anxiety","meditation"]},{"title":"9 Types of Yogic Breathing Exercises and When to Use Them","coverUrl":"iw8hvubtyzsebykywef1.jpg","slug":"types-of-yoga-breath","content":{"text":"Don’t you hate it when you’re in a tizzy about something – maybe crying or angry – and someone tells you to “just breathe?”\\n\\nIt’s the worst, right?\\n\\nYou’re all I AM BREATHING! And they’re all “not really.”\\n\\nThe truth is, even though you may be upset at whoever is giving you the very common suggestion to stop freaking out and take a breath, they’re right.\\n\\nIn yoga, breath is your life force. It’s what keeps you grounded, calm, clear headed. It’s what helps you make better decisions in all sorts of situations. Yogic breathing exercises are not like any other type of breathing. \\n\\nFor thousands of years, yoga breathing techniques that we are familiar with are scientifically proven to:\\n\\nImprove blood pressure\\nReduce symptoms of anxiety and depression\\nRestore energy levels\\nReduce pain\\nRelax muscles\\nLower stress-induced cortisol levels\\n\\nAs a yoga teacher, I am constantly integrating different forms of yoga breathing techniques into my practices. It helps my students have more harmony and peace in their lives as well as better focus and mental clarity.\\n\\n[CTA-BREATH]\\n\\nIn the meantime here are the different types of yoga breathing exercises names you should be familiar with:\\n\\n\\n1. Nadi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing\\n\\nThis type of breathing brings almost immediate relief to those who are suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, or when you’re feeling agitated.\\n\\nIt helps slow your heartbeat, lower your blood pressure, and calms down the central nervous system. Alternate \\nnostril breathing\\n is a good practice for general well being as well. And the more you practice, the easier it will be to use this type of yogic breath during times of stress.\\n\\n2. Ujjayi or Ocean’s Breath\\n\\nOcean’s Breath is the most common form in yoga for breathing practices.\\n\\nThis yoga breathing techniques has been shown to improve the quality of life in cancer patients, patients who suffer from severe depressive issues, and has even been shown in a few studies to help people who suffer from hypothyroidism by improving pulmonary function.\\n\\nIn yoga, breath is even more important than the actual poses. Here are some other names Ocean’s Breath may go by:\\n\\nVictorious breathing\\nSnake breathing\\nWhispering breath\\nSnoring breath\\n\\nWe practice ujjayi breathing in almost every one of the classes I offer on \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n!\\n\\n3. Shitali pranayama or cooling breath\\n\\nThis type of breathing is most effective in the warmer months when your body may need a little help cooling down.\\n\\nCooling breath, also known as “Taco Breath” after the curled tongue used to move the air, is known to:\\n\\nQuelch thirst and hunger\\nImprove bad breath\\nReduce fatigue\\nReduce fevers\\nImprove high blood pressure\\n\\nWhen done properly, this yoga breathing types exercise directs heat away from the head, neck, and digestive system to help cool the body.\\n\\n4. Sitkari pranayama or hissing breath\\n\\nThis type of yoga breath is another variation of cooling breath \\nmeditation\\n. The only difference is shitali pranayama is performed through a rolled tongue stuck out of the mouth, and sitkari pranayama is performed through clenched teeth.\\n\\nDuring hissing breath, do not clench your teeth so tightly that it hurts your teeth or jaws. Teeth should be only just clenched. \\n\\nHissing breath is also another cooling breath and can be done in the heat of the day or any time when the body needs to be cooled down. It also reduces anxiety, anger, agitation, and calms the mind.\\n\\n5. Brahmari or humming breath\\n\\nThe name of this breath type is named after a black Indian bee.\\n\\nIf you have a hard time meditating or maintaining focus while you’re meditating, humming breath is very helpful, but it is also good to do before going to bed.\\n\\nBrahmari pranayama releases cerebral tension and helps lower blood pressure, helping to relax your central nervous systems.\\n\\nThis yoga breathing techniques should not be done lying down. Always practice this breath sitting upright. It is also contraindicated in pregnant or menstruating women, and people who suffer with extremely high blood pressure, epilepsy, chest pain, or ear infection.\\n\\n6. Bhastrika or bellows breath\\n\\nIf you’re wanting to lose weight, this type of yogic breathing might be useful to you! \\n\\nBellows breath is used to energize and awaken the body. It also may help boost digestion and increase metabolism. However, absolutely do not practice this yoga for breathing exercise if you have cardiac issues, extremely high blood pressure, or a hernia (or previous issues with hernia).\\n\\n7. Surya Bhedana or solar breath\\n\\nThe main purpose of the solar breath is to bring vital energy and life to the body, to revitalize it. This type of yogic breathing gives the sympathetic nervous system a boost and increases the efficiency of the digestive tract. \\n\\nYou will be bringing heat to the body through your inhale (on your right nostril) and cooling your body on the exhale out of your left nostril.\\n\\nThe whole digestive system is affected by this form of breathing, so it is best not to do it right after eating.\\n8. Chandra Bhedana or lunar breath\\n\\nThis yoga breath practice is just the opposite of how you perform the solar breath practice. The idea is to bring coolness to the body..\\n\\nIt is important not to do both breaths on the same day and only do twice a day, in the morning and evening.\\n\\n9. Active Yoga Breathing\\n\\nThis yoga breathing exercise will help you be more prepared to do the common Ocean’s Breath during almost any yoga practice.\\n\\nIt is the practice of breathing deeply, evenly, and consistently during physical activity, such as walking or bike riding. If walking, use 5-10 steps for your inhale and 5 to 10 steps to exhale.  Doing this helps to calm your body and give you the benefits of deep breathing while also getting exercise.\\n\\n\\nIf you’re looking to learn more about the different types of yogic breathing and their benefits, you should definitely give MyYogaTeacher a try! \\nYou can get your 2-week free trial here and check out all the different yoga teachers and what they have to offer.\\n\\n\\nFeel free to check out any of my classes as well! I offer one called\\n Breathe and Flow\\n that you just may enjoy!\\n\\nI hope to see you on the mat soon!\\n\\nNamaste.\\n"},"createdAt":"2021-06-11T18:50:52.169324+00:00","author":{"name":"Bharath","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["anxiety","meditation"]},{"title":"Why Breath is an Important Part of Your Yoga Practice","coverUrl":"hjrzagexcb4hn9uy17cx.jpg","slug":"breathwork-and-yoga","content":{"text":"I’m pretty certain you’ve heard a lot about doing breathwork, also known as breathing exercises, before, during, and after your yoga practice.\\n\\nBut is breathing through your asanas just something you’ve been doing because your teacher told you to? Is breathwork just that, breathing? What is breathing to you?\\n\\nFor me, breath is life. It’s magic. It’s my pathway to heaven while I’m still alive.\\n\\nAnd the breath is a tool to connect, calm, and control your mind. To bring awareness to your inner self.\\n\\nWhich is what yoga is all about.\\n\\nThis is why I wanted to teach a \\nBreath and Flow class with myYogaTeacher!\\n Because pranayama (breath) and meditation are really the best part of yoga.\\n[CTA-DEFAULT]\\nLet’s look at how breath works in yoga and why the breath is the most important part of your yoga practice.\\n\\nBreath and your yoga flow\\n\\nPhysiologically\\n\\nWhen you begin your yoga practice, you begin synchronizing your breath with your movements. Whether an instructor is guiding you through this process or you’ve become accustomed to doing it on your own, breathing becomes conscious, versus automated.\\n\\nYou become aware of how your breath moves with your body, particularly during more strenuous flows or asanas where controlling your breath becomes more difficult. \\n\\nThis is where the magic begins! \\n\\nThe mind gets quieter. The body feels calmer.\\n\\nMentally and emotionally\\n\\nBreath is what allows us to experience life! Literally.\\n\\nThe practice of yoga is designed to bring harmony to our inner and outer selves. So we can experience the very essence of life through all our senses.\\n\\nWithout breath, senses can not exist.\\n\\nOptimizing our breath with even inhales and exhales during our yoga practice also opens us up to our greatest potential. It releases tension, anxiety, and revitalizes our mind and spirit.\\n\\nPhysically\\n\\nThis brings us to how breathwork and meditation as a part of a comprehensive yoga practice affect our physical bodies.\\n\\nBreath awareness can eliminate tension in the muscles, joint compression, and help realign our posture. When we hold our breath, we prevent oxygen and nutrients from reaching our muscles and organs, causing contraction. Which then causes pain.\\n\\nYoga teaches us how to breathe properly and in a way that is much more beneficial than what we are accustomed to.\\n\\nBreath and your mind\\n\\nBeing active and moving your body definitely releases endorphins. You feel good, happier. But that is often short lived.\\n\\nWhen your breath changes, it’s telling you something about yourself, your mind. For example, you may not notice but when you’re stressed, tense, angry, you breathe heavier. Much more shallow breaths. When you’re sleeping, your breathing is generally much deeper and slower, just like when you’re relaxed.\\n\\nThe breath moves with the mind and vice versa!\\n\\nIt makes sense, then, that if we can control our breathing, we can control much of what’s going on in our mind.\\n\\nIf we can control our mind, we can move with more ease and positivity in our environment and world.\\n\\n4 Types of yoga breathing and their benefits\\n\\nUjjayi Pranayama (Victorious Breath or Ocean Breath)\\n\\nThis is the most common of yoga breathing techniques and is usually identified as sound like the wind in the trees or the rise and fall of the ocean waves against the sand.\\n\\nUjjayi Pranayama is soothing and calms the central nervous system even when done in conjunction with a faster paced vinyasa practice. The flow of the breath with the movements releases tension throughout the body.\\n\\nNadi Shodhana Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing)\\n\\nThis form of breath work is designed to purify and unblock your nadis, energy channels that flow through your body and connect to your chakras.\\n\\nStudies have shown that people who practice this form of breathing on a consistent basis have lower blood pressure and better mental focus. Alternate nostril breathing is often done at the end of a yoga practice.\\n\\nKumbhaka Pranayama (Breath Retention)\\n\\nKumbhaka Pranayama is probably known to you simply as deep breathing. Except in this practice, you actually hold your breath for a bit, breathe in a little bit more and hold it for as long as you can before releasing.\\n\\nThis can be difficult for people who are very anxious, so they may want to begin with holding their breath for much shorter periods of time. But ultimately, this type of breathing is meant to fully oxygenate the blood.\\n\\nKapalabhati Pranayama (Breath of Fire)\\n\\nFeeling groggy? Maybe you woke up in a fog or you’re just having a mentally exhausting day. The Breath of Fire breathing technique will bring a pep back into your step and improve decision making and mental focus.\\n\\nThis type of breathwork is not beneficial when you’re already under a lot of stress.\\n\\n\\nIf you’re unsure about how to perform any of these breathing techniques, you’d definitely love my \\nBreathe and Flow class!\\n It’s perfect for any level of yogi, and we focus on breathing, meditation, and foundational yoga poses in a full-body flow.\\n\\nAs I mentioned before, myYogaTeacher is full of almost any type of yoga class you could possibly want to attend! And they’re taught by instructors like me, from the birthplace of yoga, India. Whether you need a personalized 1:1 session or are game for a group session, we’re here to guide you on your health journey. We give you tips and tricks, corrections and goals.\\n\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial of myYogaTeacher here and jump into my class!\\n\\n\\nMy name’s Bharath. I’ll be your teacher. :-)\\n"},"createdAt":"2021-05-20T16:30:37.624653+00:00","author":{"name":"Bharath","pictureUrl":null,"teacherMytSlug":null},"category":["anxiety","meditation"]},{"title":"Facing Life Changes During the COVID-19  Pandemic","coverUrl":"pexels-evg-culture-3869390.jpg","slug":"life-changes-during-covid-pandemic","content":{"text":"Do you feel like the COVID-19 pandemic has changed your daily life? Everyone is learning how to navigate these changes with grace and dignity. For example, taking online yoga classes through \\nmyYogaTeacher\\n can ease the stress that this pandemic has brought. These tips can also help you process the life changes you’re facing and handle them with confidence.\\n\\nStarting a New Job\\n\\nIf you’re one of the millions of people who became unemployed as a result of the pandemic, you may have found a new position. Starting a new job during such a tumultuous time can be challenging, especially if you’re going to be working remotely for the foreseeable future! Asking your boss for extra support and making an effort to get to know your coworkers virtually can go a long way.\\n\\nWorking From Home\\n\\nWhether you shifted to working remotely at your job, or you had to begin working remotely at a new job, this adjustment can be tough - especially if you’re a parent!\\n\\nIf you’re working from home with kids, \\nHealthline recommends\\n sticking to a regular schedule and going over it with your kids, communicating about shared responsibilities with your partner, and even setting up virtual playdates with their friends to keep your kids occupied. If you need to take some time during the workday to \\nhelp your children with virtual educatio\\nn, discuss this with your boss so that you can schedule appropriate breaks.\\n\\nConducting Essential Business\\n\\nPerhaps you’ve had to go to the doctor or dentist during the pandemic, despite the risks. Or maybe you’ve needed to have your car serviced. The truth is that some tasks just can’t wait. That’s why some people have even found themselves buying homes during the pandemic - sometimes, you can’t put off relocating!\\n\\nIf you need to buy a home during this pandemic, rest assured that moving is still worth it. You’ll need to find a reliable real estate agent, determine your budget, and discuss strategies for safe home viewing with sellers. Spend some time researching the housing market in your state and city to work out a realistic price range.\\n\\nStaying Fit\\n\\nAfter the lockdowns in 2020, you may have realized that you gained a little weight while staying home. It’s important to recognize that you can drop a few pounds without resorting to fad diets. Lifestyle changes like eating foods that promote digestive health, getting more physical activity, and noting your body’s responses to different foods can help you lose up to fifteen pounds in a month. You can easily do bodyweight exercises or \\npractice yoga from the comfort of your home!\\n\\n\\nKeeping Your Family Safe\\n\\nDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, you’ve had to change the way you go about your usual routines - even running some casual errands means taking precautions! But it can be hard to tell which methods will really help you stay safe while taking care of responsibilities like grocery shopping.\\n\\nSticking with research-backed strategies for protecting yourself and your family is the best way to approach this. For instance, \\nThe Conversation recommends\\n wearing a mask at the grocery store and other indoor spaces, using hand sanitizer after you go shopping, regularly cleaning any reusable bags that you shop with, and staying six feet away from other shoppers. Over the past year, this pandemic has changed all of our lives in countless ways. Embracing change isn’t always easy. But with the right outlook, we can accept these changes and begin\\ntaking steps towards a brighter future.\\n\\nLooking for a new way to work out at home during the pandemic? \\nTry online yoga classes through My Yoga Teacher! Check out our class options on our website today.\\n"},"createdAt":"2021-03-18T17:59:41.569777+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg","teacherMytSlug":"will-1"},"category":["anxiety"]},{"title":"How I went from anxiety and depression to peace and joy!","coverUrl":"Will-cover.jpg","slug":"how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy","content":{"text":"Hi!To start, you should know what brought me to myYogaTeacher. Why I actually care about our service to you, your experience and most importantly your results.\\n\\nYou see, I'm not a natural yogi. I'm not all Zen and infinite positivity.\\n\\nI'm an engineer. I have an analytical, 1000 mph mind full of scientific facts and equations. Logical solutions to every speed-bump and challenge.\\n\\nI used to subcontract for NASA. I'd fly around to different bases, run structural analysis on new masts, sensors and solar arrays we'd be sending into orbit.\\n\\nBasically, I had a lucrative career that my friends admired. My family was proud and my life looked great.\\n\\nBut inside. Inside I was a mess... I was angry, anxious, mildly-depressed, and most of all, Unhappy!\\n\\nI mean, I had a lot of pleasure-happiness - the kind of skin-deep happiness you get from nice clothes, trips to Tahoe and Vegas, and Sunday brunch with friends.\\n\\nBut nothing real and deep. Not the happiness that touches your heart and makes you spontaneously grateful.\\n\\nThe best part of my week was drinking with my friends on the weekend. And when drinking is the best part of your life, you know something's wrong.\\n\\nI needed to make big changes.\\n\\nI needed to find the answer to one big question. \"How can I be happy, stop living in anxiety, and start living MY life?\"\\n\\nI had no idea how to answer that question. But I knew I wouldn't find it sitting at my desk running computer simulations of shuttle launch conditions.\\n\\nSo I did the only thing I could think of, something crazy and irrational in my friend's eyes. Stupid in my parent's eyes!\\n\\nI quit my job and left the US to travel and do some \"soul-searching\". ... crazy right? Right.\\n\\nWell just like everyone predicted, I was lost in the world. I was looking for something as vague as deep-happiness and less anxiety. And I was drinking and partying more than ever.\\n\\nI mean, I was having more fun than ever before in my entire life. Going on adventures, riding camels through Indian deserts, river-rafting in Thailand, seeing Halong Bay in Vietnam and the magical pillar-like islands jetting hundreds of feet out of the crystal-blue water.\\n\\nBUT... and this is a big 'but'.\\n\\nAs soon as I slowed down. As soon as I stopped for just one minute... I felt so dissatisfied, so anxious, and more unhappy than ever.\\n\\nIt was hopeless!\\n\\nI couldn't go back to a life of desk-work. Where every soul-sucking minute still haunted my nightmares. But I wasn't finding any real change by just wandering the world going on adventures either.\\n\\nI always succeeded in school and work. But in life, I had just proven myself an epic failure. I was crushed... desperate.\\n\\nThen, by sheer chance, I ended up in a Buddhist \\nmeditation\\n retreat in Dharmashala, India - McLeod Ganj where the Tibetan government in exile is.\\n\\nThat was the beginning of HUGE changes for me. I started meditating daily and reading tons of books about Buddhism, meditation, compassion, yoga, eastern philosophy.\\n\\nAnd you know what?\\n\\nPretty soon... I was right back where I started. Same patterns, same dissatisfaction, same everything.\\n\\nBut I had hope, I had a glimpse of real happiness and peace. Something stable that comes from inside - rather than running on overdrive trying to get the outside to be 'just right'!\\n\\nFor a while, things went back and forth for me. Making positive changes in my life, meditating, practicing yoga, reading ancient wisdom. Then drinking, partying, feeling lost in life, anxious and mildly-depressed.\\n\\nThat's when the real breakthrough happened. I found a place where I could \\npractice yoga\\n and meditation. A retreat center in Mexico, in a little beach town on the Pacific Coast.\\n\\nThere were teachers there to help me stay on track, to answer my questions, to motivate and inspire me. People to help guide my practice so that I could actually LIVE the glimpse I had found in India.\\n\\nWith this personal attention, immediate feedback and guidance, I started stabilizing in peace, joy and fulfillment.\\n\\nCan you guess what the biggest change was?\\n\\nI realized, I didn't need to run away from my old life, society, or anything like that to be happy.\\n\\nYou always hear things like \"happiness comes from within\" - but it's kind of pointless to know that - and not live it!\\n\\nSo now, I'm working with myYogaTeacher to make that same kind of impact on others. Connecting YOU with a teacher who can give you that same guidance. The guidance I had to travel thousands of miles and live abroad to find... this is a dream come true.\\n\\nAnd I am so grateful that my work gives you the same opportunity I had. You don't have to uproot your life, wander the world, hope to stumble across a caring teacher dedicated to helping you.You get all of that delivered to you.\\n\\nSo this is what makes my work here a lot more than just a job. This is why I wake up excited to support our Members, work with our amazing teachers and our team of developers.\\n\\nI get to be part of a team making meaningful change in the world and positively impacting the lives of everyone we serve.\\n\\nThanks so much for reading all of this and I sincerely hope you enjoy (and live the benefits of) your time with myYogaTeacher.\\n\\nI've decided to start sharing some of my amazing stories of transformation, peace, health and personal development from my travels and times living in Yoga and Meditation retreat centers! So keep a lookout for emails from me \\n\\nYour friend in Peace and Joy,Will\\n"},"createdAt":"2020-06-03T00:00:00+00:00","author":{"name":"Will","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg","teacherMytSlug":"will-1"},"category":["anxiety","mental_health"]},{"title":"Yoga Nidra Cured My Insomnia","coverUrl":"isq4hw4ivknbxwkgziz0.jpg","slug":"yoga-nidra-cured-my-insomnia","content":{"text":" \\n\\nWhat is the translation of Sankalpa?\\n\\nClick here to find out!\\n\\nFrom Sanskrit --> English!\\n\\nSankalpa is a Sanskrit word. \"San\" means a connection to our highest self and \"kalpa\" means vow or promise. So it literally means a promise to yourself!\\n\\nTo find my Sankalpa, I use two methods. Sometimes I scan my body and my emotions and see what I come up with. If I notice that my jaw is really tight or my stomach feels anxious, I might state “I have peace within my body.” \\n\\nThe other method I use is to imagine what my perfect life would be like. How do I feel? What do I think about? What happens in the morning? What is the best part of that day? And then I use that to craft a short statement. For example, “I have time to enjoy things.”\\n\\nOnce you have decided your Sankalpa, you say it a few times in the beginning of the session. \\n\\nYou do not fall asleep in Yoga Nidra\\n\\nIt happens sometimes! And if it does, just go with it. Your body is the expert and might need sleep more than Yoga Nidra that day.\\n\\nI once heard it described as the “knife’s edge of sleep.” In Yoga Nidra, your body is asleep but your mind is not. This is called the hypnagogic starte, but no need to geek out. \\n\\nWith your body asleep, much of the brain power normally used to control the body is reduced. This lets you to get to the source of your sleep issues: YOUR MIND.\\n\\n \\n\\nThe Five Steps of Yoga Nidra\\n\\nAfter an initial relaxation and stating your Sankalpa, your teacher guides you through five stages. These five stages generally align with the Koshas. The Koshas, according to ancient Yoga texts, are the “sheaths of being”. The Yoga Nidra sequence addresses each of these, moving from the outermost physical layer to the most central self (called the “Atman” in Sanskrit). \\n\\nWant the hard science behind this?\\n\\nClick here!\\n\\nScience Rocks!\\n\\nYoga Nidra changes the pace of brain waves while also releasing hormones that relax blood vessels, initiate digestion and other parasympathetic nervous system activities.From a psychological perspective, this journey can be considered explorations through the ego to the self, observing inner reactions with an unbiased perspective.\\n\\nThis is why Yoga Nidra begins with the sequence of naming body parts. This allows your mind to spend energy and focus on the physical body. The particular sequence of body parts is very important and done in a similar fashion each and every time. By the end of this sequence, the mind can release it’s hold of the body and begin to focus on something else. In turn, the muscles of the body soften and release any holding or tension. \\n\\nThe next three stages address the breath, then the energy within your body, then moves to your senses. This part of the practice balances the way you feel emotionally and physically. \\n\\nThen you can begin the deep work of Yoga Nidra.\\n\\nWhile in this deeply relaxed state, you can begin to release some of those nasty patterns that keep us awake, keep us stressed, and keep us unhealthy. In Yoga, we call these \"Samskara\". Samskara are the mental and emotional habits or loops we get stuck in. Our brains love autopilot. Autopilot is why we can continually learn new things without forgetting the old. But sometimes, autopilot keeps us stuck.\\n\\nIsn't this the same thing as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy?\\n\\nNope! But it's close. Click here to learn more.\\n\\nIt's super close though!\\n\\nCognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on changing schemas, sometimes called assumptions or core beliefs. Schemas are automatic thought patterns that have negative effects. If every time, you make a mistake you think “I’m so dumb” that’s a (very basic) example of a schema. Samskaras are almost identical to this but they tend to be deeper and difficult to articulate.\\n\\nFor example, my insomnia wheels were turning at the thought of things I’d say at meetings, concerns over etiquette and competency. My Yoga Nidra practice began peeling back the layers about WHY I thought these things. Yoga Nidra helped me face one of my Samskaras. \\n\\nThis is the real power of Yoga Nidra. Yoga Nidra can help you rewire things that are no longer serving you. Yoga Nidra can help you be a better person - to yourself.\\n\\nFor this part of Yoga Nidra to be effective, you NEED a trained and experienced teacher. It's even better when you're seeing the same teacher and they know you well.\\n\\nAt the end of the practice, you revisit your Sankalpa and your teacher skillfully guides you back to an awake state. Your body and mind energized - but relaxed. A truly amazing feeling. From here you can go on with your day, or as I did that first night, find your way to bed for a wonderful satisfying sleep.\\n"},"createdAt":"2020-02-14T00:00:00+00:00","author":null,"category":["anxiety","meditation"]},{"title":"My Anxiety and Breath","coverUrl":"namrata-k-cover.jpeg","slug":"my-anxiety-and-breath","content":{"text":"Yoga help me breathe. \\n\\nIt's very strange to realize that there is a negative pattern of breathing. Who would breathe in a wrong pattern!? I had not realized how the pattern of my breathing was impacting my health. \\n\\n\\nI was extremely weak and anxious most of the time but this deep level of finally understanding my pattern of breath helped me. I was able to get out of my anxiety problem (which was completely subconscious). I know it sounds to good to be true, but it really did work wonders! \\n\\nBecause of how helpful this was for me, I wanted to dive deep and explore the roots of yoga. I completed my Master's in \\nYoga Therapy\\n. I learned how each and every cell of the body needs rejuvenation from breath for a peaceful flow of blood. This changes inner mechanisms and with consistent practice, Yoga helped me greatly. I was able to sleep better and I had an internal calmness that I had not experienced before. \\n\\n\\nToday I stand very strong with my mind and body with a good rejuvenation of breath. I want to focus on helping other people understand and experience the true essence of \\nYoga\\n and how it creates \\ninternal peace\\n. I want to share my knowledge and help bring awareness to each and every individual's life.\\n"},"createdAt":"2020-01-09T00:00:00+00:00","author":{"name":"Namrata Khandelwal","pictureUrl":"namrata-k-pro.jpg","teacherMytSlug":"namrata-2"},"category":["anxiety","mental_health"]}],"categories":[{"name":"Fitness","value":"fitness","display":"fitness"},{"name":"Therapy","value":"therapy","display":"therapy"},{"name":"Yoga","value":"yoga","display":"yoga"},{"name":"Anxiety","value":"anxiety","display":"anxiety"},{"name":"Pain Management","value":"pain_management","display":"pain management"},{"name":"Mental Health","value":"mental_health","display":"mental health"},{"name":"Emotional Health","value":"emotional_health","display":"emotional health"},{"name":"Weight Loss","value":"weight_loss","display":"weight loss"},{"name":"Meditation","value":"meditation","display":"meditation"},{"name":"Restorative","value":"restorative","display":"restorative"},{"name":"Yoga Teacher Training","value":"yoga_teacher_training","display":"yoga teacher training"},{"name":"Workshops","value":"workshops","display":"workshops"},{"name":"Yoga Poses","value":"yoga_poses","display":"yoga poses"},{"name":"MyYogaTeacher","value":"myYogaTeacher","display":"myyogateacher"}],"search":"","category":"anxiety","pageTitle":"Anxiety","schema_category":"Anxiety"}