How I went from anxiety and depression to peace and joy!

{"slug":"how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy","recentPosts":[{"id":"clgc1nu7j1uwk0birznqai3x1","slug":"10-yoga-poses-for-multiple-sclerosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"10 Yoga Poses to Enhance Wellness for Multiple Sclerosis Patients","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Learn about Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis and how it can help manage symptoms. Improve your quality of life with these yoga poses.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Discover yoga for multiple sclerosis - improve your quality of life with these poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-11T09:12:29.35505+00:00","coverUrl":"aydrjq4doquwuaot8kt7.jpg","content":{"text":"Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system. It can cause a range of symptoms, including fatigue, muscle weakness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. While there is no cure for MS, practicing yoga can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Before starting a yoga practice, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.\\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nStress and Fatigue Reduction: Yoga provides a calming and relaxing effect on the body and mind, which can help ease the mental and physical stresses of MS. It can lead to a reduction in fatigue levels and promote a more peaceful state of mind.\\nImproved Balance and Coordination: MS can cause issues with balance and coordination, but yoga can help improve these areas. The practice of yoga involves movements that require balance and coordination, which can improve the function of the nervous system.\\nIncreased Flexibility and Strength: Yoga poses require the use of muscles that may not be utilized in everyday activities. Practicing yoga regularly can lead to increased flexibility and strength, which can improve overall fitness levels.\\nRespiratory Function Improvement: MS can affect respiratory function, but yoga can help improve breathing patterns. Certain yoga practices involve deep breathing exercises that can help increase lung capacity and oxygenation of the body.\\nPain Management: MS can cause pain and discomfort, but yoga can be an effective tool for managing these symptoms. The gentle movements of yoga can help relieve tension and tightness in the muscles, which can reduce pain and improve overall comfort.\\nImproved Overall Health and Well-Being: By providing a range of physical and mental benefits, yoga can improve overall health and well-being for individuals with MS. Regular practice can promote a sense of inner calm and peacefulness, which can positively impact all areas of life.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Multiple Sclerosis Symptom Management\\nSeated or chair yoga poses are ideal for individuals with limited mobility, while standing poses are suitable for those with greater mobility. Focus on poses that improve balance, coordination, and flexibility, such as:\\n\\n1.Child's Pose (Balasana): \\n\\nSit on your heels with your knees apart, and fold your torso forward, resting your forehead on the floor. Stretch your arms forward, palms facing down. Hold for 5-10 deep breaths.\\n\\n2.Cat-Cow (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): \\n\\nStart on your hands and knees, with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Inhale and lift your chest and tailbone towards the ceiling (Cow pose), and exhale, rounding your spine towards the ceiling (Cat pose). Repeat for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n3.Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms out to the sides, and gaze over your right hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n4.Tree Pose (Vrksasana): \\n\\nStand with your feet hip-distance apart, and shift your weight onto your left foot. Place your right foot on your left thigh, and balance here. Place your hands in prayer position at your heart or extend your arms overhead. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5.Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana): \\n\\nFrom a tabletop position, walk your hands forward and lift your hips up and back, forming an inverted V-shape with your body. Press your hands and feet into the ground and hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 45 degrees. Bend your right knee, keeping it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms overhead and gaze forward. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\n\\n7.Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana): \\n\\nLie on your stomach with your elbows under your shoulders and forearms on the ground. Press into your forearms and lift your chest up, keeping your shoulders relaxed. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n8.Bridge Pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-distance apart. Press into your feet and lift your hips up, keeping your arms and shoulders on the ground. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Triangle Pose (Trikonasana): \\n\\nFrom a standing position, step your left foot back and turn it out 90 degrees. Extend your arms out to the sides and reach forward with your right hand, placing it on your shin or a block. Gaze up at your left hand. Hold for 5-10 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\\n10.Corpse Pose (Savasana): \\n\\nLie on your back with your arms and legs extended. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing your body to fully relax. Stay here for at least 5-10 minutes.\\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Yoga for Multiple Sclerosis\\nHere are some breathing and meditation practices that can be incorporated into a yoga practice for multiple sclerosis symptom management:\\n\nDeep Breathing: Sit comfortably and take deep, slow breaths through the nose, filling the lungs completely. Exhale slowly through the nose, releasing all the air. Repeat for several minutes.\\nAlternate Nostril Breathing: Sit comfortably and use the thumb to close one nostril while inhaling through the other. Then, use the ring finger to close the opposite nostril while exhaling through the first. Repeat for several minutes.\\nMindful Breathing: Focus on the sensation of the breath as it enters and leaves the body. If the mind wanders, gently bring the focus back to the breath.\\nBody Scan Meditation: Lie down or sit comfortably and bring attention to each part of the body, starting from the toes and moving up to the head. Notice any sensations or tensions and release them as you move through each part.\\n\\nConclusion\\nPracticing yoga can provide many benefits for individuals with multiple sclerosis, including reduced stress and fatigue, improved balance and coordination, and increased flexibility and strength. Incorporating yoga poses and practices into your routine can help manage symptoms and improve overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a healthcare provider and find a qualified yoga teacher to begin a safe and effective practice."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg55sr3657wd0airoeszt66q","slug":"yoga-for-carpal-tunnel-syndrom","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Carpal Tunnel: Top 10 Yoga Poses, Benefits, FAQs","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms with yoga! Discover 10 poses to reduce pain and improve wrist and hand health. Learn best practices and protect yourself.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Relieve carpal tunnel with yoga! 10 poses to manage symptoms and improve wrist and hand health.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-06T13:33:53.820514+00:00","coverUrl":"fyzezortjqar8ovbd4vf.jpg","content":{"text":"Do you ever experience pain or tingling in your hands and fingers? It could be carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition that affects many people who use their hands and wrists frequently. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the median nerve in the wrist, which can lead to discomfort, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.\\nFortunately, yoga can offer a natural and effective way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. In this article, we'll explore some yoga poses and practices that can help relieve pain and improve flexibility in the wrists and hands.\n\n\\nBenefits of Yoga for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nYoga has many benefits for overall health and wellness, and it can be particularly helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are just a few of the benefits:\\nReducing pain:\\n Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrist and hand, which can reduce pain and discomfort.\\nImproving flexibility: \\nTight muscles and tendons in the wrist and hand can exacerbate carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help improve flexibility and mobility.\\nReducing stress:\\n Stress and tension in the body can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, but yoga can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.\n\\n\\nYoga Poses for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nYoga poses, or asanas, can be a powerful tool for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few poses to try:\\n\n\\n1.Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, reducing pain and stiffness. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the floor, outside your left thigh. Bring your left heel toward your right buttock. Cross your left arm over your right arm and bring your palms together. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n2.Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. Start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Lift your hips up and back, straightening your arms and legs. Press your hands into the floor and lengthen through your spine. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\n\\n3.Garudasana (Eagle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help strengthen the muscles in the hands and wrists, which can improve grip strength and reduce pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart and your arms at your sides. Bring your right arm under your left arm, and bend both elbows to bring your palms together. Cross your right thigh over your left thigh. Balance on your left foot and hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n4.Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the wrists and forearms, promoting flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet about 3-4 feet apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly. Reach your right arm forward and hinge at your hip to reach your right hand toward your right shin or the floor. Extend your left arm straight up toward the ceiling. Hold for 5-10 breaths, then switch sides.\\n\n\\n5.Padangusthasana (Big Toe Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, improving flexibility and reducing pain. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for your big toes with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n6.Marjariasana (Cat Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Exhale and round your spine, tucking your chin to your chest. Repeat for several breaths.\n\\n7.Bitilasana (Cow Pose): \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch and mobilize the wrists, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees, with your wrists directly under your shoulders and your knees directly under your hips. Inhale and arch your back, lifting your tailbone and dropping your belly. Hold for a breath or two, then return to neutral spine.\n\\n8.Matsyasana (Fish Pose):\\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the chest and shoulders, relieving tension in the upper body and reducing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. To perform this pose, lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips and slide your hands, palms down, under your buttocks. Press your forearms and elbows into the floor and lift your chest. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n9.Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose):\\n \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the inner thighs, hips, and groin, which can alleviate pressure on the wrists and hands. To perform this pose, sit on the floor with the soles of your feet together and your knees bent out to the sides. Hold your ankles or feet with your hands and gently press your knees down toward the floor. Hold for 5-10 breaths.\n\\n10\\n.\\nUttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)\\n: \\n\\nThis pose can help stretch the muscles in the hands, wrists, and arms, reducing stiffness and promoting flexibility. To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Inhale and lift your arms up overhead. Exhale and fold forward, reaching for the floor with your hands. Hold for 5-10 breaths. If you have difficulty reaching the floor, you can place your hands on blocks or a chair seat.\n\n\\nBreathing and Meditation Practices for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Relief\\nIn addition to yoga poses, breathing exercises and meditation can be helpful for managing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Here are a few practices to try:\\nDeep Breathing:\\n Taking slow, deep breaths can help reduce stress and tension in the body, which can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nGuided Meditation:\\n Guided meditations can help promote relaxation and reduce stress, which can in turn reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.\\nVisualization:\\n Visualizing the body healing and repairing itself can help reduce pain and promote healing in the wrists and hands.\n\\n\\nTips for Practicing Yoga with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\nWhen practicing yoga with carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to listen to your body and modify your practice as needed. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:\\nUse Props\\n: Props like blocks or straps can help make poses more accessible and comfortable.\\nModify Poses\\n: If a pose is too painful or uncomfortable, modify it or skip it altogether.\\nBe Mindful\\n: Pay attention to your body and how it feels during your practice. If a certain pose or practice is causing pain or discomfort, stop and modify or skip it.\\n\\nConclusion:\\nManaging carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms can be a challenge, but incorporating yoga into your routine can be a natural and effective way to find relief. By practicing yoga poses, breathing exercises, and meditation regularly, you can improve flexibility, reduce pain, and promote relaxation in your wrists and hands. Give it a try and see how yoga can benefit your carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms today!\n\n\\nFrequently Asked Questions about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome\\n\\nQ1. How can yoga help people with carpal tunnel syndrome?\\nAns: \\nYoga is a great way to manage carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms! Certain yoga poses can help stretch and strengthen the muscles in the wrists, hands, and arms, which can relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling. Plus, practicing yoga can help reduce inflammation, increase flexibility, and improve circulation in the affected area.\\n\\nQ2. What yoga poses should you avoid with carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, it's important to avoid yoga poses that put too much pressure on the wrists or require excessive bending or flexing of the hands. Poses like Chaturanga Dandasana (Four-Limbed Staff Pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog Pose), and Plank Pose can worsen carpal tunnel symptoms and should be avoided. Instead, focus on poses that gently stretch and strengthen the wrists and hands.\n\\nQ3.What are the best practices for carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n In addition to practicing yoga, there are several other best practices for managing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks that strain the wrists and hands, using ergonomic tools and equipment to reduce strain, maintaining good posture, and engaging in regular exercise and stretching to promote overall health and flexibility. It's important to take care of yourself both on and off the mat!\n\\nQ4.How can you protect yourself from carpal tunnel?\\nAns:\\n There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Using ergonomic tools and equipment, taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, and maintaining good posture can all help reduce your risk. Engaging in regular exercise and stretching can also help keep your hands and wrists healthy and flexible. Remember to listen to your body and take action if you notice any symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands or wrists. A healthcare provider can help diagnose and treat any issues before they become more serious."},"category":["fitness"]},{"id":"clg3manw0c2300bk8q089x7gd","slug":"yoga-for-improved-mobility","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Top 10 Yoga Poses for Improved Mobility: Unlock Your Body's Potential","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga is an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn about the best yoga poses for improving your mobility.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-05T11:40:10.955124+00:00","coverUrl":"mo0n5st8ek3dj2p0m8ib.jpg","content":{"text":"We know that yoga can help elevate your mental and emotional wellbeing, but it’s actually an incredibly efficient tool for improving your mobility for the better, regardless of your age, background, or ability.\\nWhat do we mean by mobility, and why is it important? Mobility refers to the level of ease with which you can move your body. This affects your ability to walk, run, lift, and engage in physical activities like sports, dancing, or just playing in the backyard with your kids or grandkids. Your level of mobility directly translates to your overall well-being, and it can greatly influence whether or not you experience chronic pain.\\n\\nHow Yoga Improves Mobility?\\nA typical yoga practice includes performing a holistic routine of stretches that work to improve your flexibility, balance, and strength — which all directly impact your mobility. Let’s break down how each of those factors work.\\nFlexibility refers to the range of motion between your joints and muscles, and an inflexible body is rigid, stiff, and achy, with a relatively small range of motion. A regular yoga routine can help lengthen and strengthen your muscles, improving your range of motion while preventing injury and reducing your risk for chronic pain. Along with increasing mobility, improving your flexibility also puts less strain on your body overall.\\nBuilding strength is crucial to achieve better mobility, since stronger muscles give you better stability, balance, and control over your movements. Yoga targets muscle groups and makes them stronger, more toned, and more capable of increased movement with more control. Increasing strength also helps prevent injury, improves your sense of balance, and reduces your risk for issues later in life – like osteoporosis.\\nIt may be surprising to learn that yogic breathing can also help improve your mobility. By calming your mind, improving your awareness, and relaxing your body, you can build a greater connection with your physical self and reduce tension. This can lead to an increase in your range of motion and a better understanding of your personal limitations.\\nThe best part about yoga is that it's low impact, and it's approachable for everyone. It doesn’t matter how old you are, or whether or not you’re a beginner. You can start out with slow, gentle movements that can greatly improve your mobility without the risk of injury. You can also practice yoga in the comfort of your own home, by following the sequence below or working with one of the many qualified yoga instructors available here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n\\nYoga Poses for Better Mobility\\nTo get started practicing yoga for improved physical mobility, try performing the poses below several times per week over an extended period of time. \\n1.Sun Salutations\\n\\nStart at the top of your mat in Mountain pose, with your hands in prayer position. With flowing, dynamic movement, progress through the following postures 3 or more times:\\nUpward Salute\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nLow Lunge (left foot forward)\\nPlank\\nFour-Limbed Staff pose\\nUpward Facing Dog or Cobra\\nDownward Facing Dog\\nLow Lunge (right foot forward)\\nStanding Half-Forward Bend\\nStanding Forward Fold\\nUpward Salute\\nReturn to Mountain pose\\nRepeat\\n\\n2. Chair Pose\\n\\nStand in Mountain pose at the top of your mat, with your hands at your sides and feet hip distance apart. As you inhale, raise your hands over your head, with your arms parallel with your ears. As you exhale, hinge slightly at your waist, bend your knees and lower your torso forward as if you were about to sit down in a chair. Keep your core engaged and your spine straight while you hold this posture for several breaths.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position, with your hands and knees on your mat. Push up from your hands and knees, lifting your hips until you are balanced on your hands and feet, with your body resembling an inverted “v.” Keep your head in between your arms, ears balanced over your shoulders, and stay in this pose for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Low Lunge\\n\\nFrom your position in Downward Dog, you can easily transition to Low Lunge by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. With your right leg behind you, gently kneel on your right knee. Inhale as you reach your arms up over your head, parallel with your ears. Expand your chest, lengthen your spine, keep your chin level and your gaze focused forward in front of you.\\n\\n5. Plank\\n\\nLie face down on your mat, and using your palms to push up from the floor, lift your body until you are balanced on your palms and the toes of your feet. In this pose, your body should be positioned in a straight line, with your gaze directed at the floor in front of you. Hold for a few breaths, or for 30-60 seconds if you are feeling strong in this pose.\\n\\n6. Cobra Pose\\n\\nStart by laying with your stomach facing down on the floor, with your legs straight and your arms folded under your head. Place your palms on the mat parallel to your chest. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your rib cage keeping your hands underneath your shoulders. With a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat, arching your back. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest.\\n\\n7. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n8. Bow Pose\\n\\nLie down on your stomach with your forehead against the mat and your hands resting at your sides. Inhale and engage your core, slightly lifting your torso up, bending your legs and grabbing your ankles with each hand. Open your chest and lift your chin, so that your gaze is facing forward. Maintain a steady breath while holding this pose, allowing your body to gently rock back and forth with each inhale and exhale. Release after 20-30 seconds.\\n\\n9. Bridge Pose\\n\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Interlace your fingers on the floor underneath you and lift your hips higher, while staying in the pose for 5-10 breaths.\\n\\n10. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes.\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clg0gw3o0ycc30ak0rlfm4ea9","slug":"yoga-for-endometriosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Endometriosis: 6 Easy Poses to Try at Home","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can help ease symptoms of endometriosis, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with the condition.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best yoga poses for endometriosis symptoms.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:45:34.990165+00:00","coverUrl":"htglzgglkwtr6is6mzmi.jpg","content":{"text":"Endometriosis is a disorder that affects about 190 million women worldwide, causing painful periods, infertility, and other severe symptoms that can significantly reduce the overall quality of their lives. While science is still working to fully understand endometriosis, right now there are a few ways in which women can manage the symptoms of this painful condition, including medication, surgery and various forms of therapy. Yoga can also help ease symptoms, and it’s a great option for women who are looking for a low-risk, low impact way to cope with endometriosis.\\nYoga helps reduce the troubling symptoms of endometriosis in a few different ways. The overall practice of yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for operating the body's relaxation and digestive responses. These responses tell your body to slow down and rest, which are crucial when it comes to reducing the pain, anxiety, and stress that comes with endometriosis.\\nYoga also enhances blood flow to your reproductive organs, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Yoga poses work to stretch the muscles and tissues around your uterus and ovaries, which can help reduce the intensity and duration of menstrual cramps.  Endometriosis commonly causes intense chronic pain in the pelvis, lower back, and hips, which yoga can help alleviate through gentle stretches and movement that help open up and relax the muscles in these areas.\\nEndometriosis can also cause infertility due to scarring around the reproductive organs, but yoga can help offset this issue by increasing blood flow to the area and lowering inflammation. Yoga also works to balance your hormones by reducing cortisol and other stress hormones and regulating your menstrual cycle.\\nIn terms of mental health, yoga is one of the most effective tools in managing anxiety and depression, which are common symptoms of endometriosis. This condition can cause immense chronic pain, which typically results in emotional distress that yoga can help alleviate. Yoga sends signals to your mind and body that encourage both to relax, reducing tension, calming anxious thoughts, and improving your sense of well-being.\\n\\nWhat Types of Yoga are Best for Endometriosis?\\nThere are many different kinds of yoga, but if you’re experiencing symptoms of endometriosis you may want to stick with gentle postures like those you would perform in Hatha, Restorative, Gentle, or Yin yoga. These types of yoga focus on easy, low-impact movement, along with relaxation and stress reduction, and they typically involve some type of yogic breath work – which can also help reduce inflammation and chronic pain.\\nIf you’re considering yoga for managing your symptoms of endometriosis, there are certain precautions you should take in order to avoid making those symptoms worse. While you’re on your period, it’s important to avoid inverted postures that might interrupt or change your body’s natural flow. If a specific posture causes pain or discomfort, exit the pose immediately and take a break. It’s important to listen to your body and avoid any kind of position that doesn’t feel good. If you’re unsure about your alignment or you’d like some guidance on how to practice yoga for endometriosis, you can enroll in an online class or book a private session with one of the instructors here at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\n\\n6 Easy Yoga Poses for Endometriosis\\nIf you’re experiencing the painful symptoms of endometriosis, try the gentle poses below for some relief.\\n1.Child’s Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n2. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart in a tabletop position with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your spine. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n3. Fixed Angle Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat with your knees bent and the soles of your feet pressed against each other. With your spine straight, press your hands behind you and gently open up your chest and tuck in your abdomen. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n4. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nSit in the center of your mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Take a deep inhale and raise your arms directly over your head. As you exhale, slowly lean forward and place your head and chest on top of your legs, and grab your big toes with both of your hands. Tuck your chin and curl abdomen, relaxing your lower back as you sink into this pose. Hold for one minute.\\n\\n5. Supine Twist Pose\\n\\nLie on the floor with your knees bent and bring them to your chest. Slowly and mindfully drop your left side while extending your arms outward in a “t” shape. Hold this pose for about 30 seconds while breathing mindfully. Bring your knees back to your chest, and then repeat on your right side.\\n\\n6. Legs Up The Wall Pose\\n\\nPlace a folded blanket parallel against a wall. Sit sideways in the middle of the blanket, and turn yourself toward the wall, lifting your legs up and propping them against the wall. Lay back comfortably, rest your head and neck on the floor, and fully straighten your legs. Spread your arms out to your sides with your palms facing up. Allow your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to completely relax. Breathe evenly and mindfully while holding this pose for 5-8 minutes.\\n\\nPranayama for Endometriosis\\nYogic breath work can help ease feelings of stress and anxiety, while giving you tools with which to manage pain. Try these breathing exercises to encourage a sense of calm and relaxation.\\n1.Nadi Sodhana or “Alternate Nostril Breathing”\\nExhale completely, and then place your right index finger onto your right nostril, and breathe deeply in through the left. Alternate and place your thumb over your left nostril, and exhale through your right. Continue alternating, repeating at least 10 times.\\n\\n2. Ujjayi or Ocean’s Breath\\nStart by breathing in through your mouth. As you exhale, pull in your chin in toward your body and so that your throat is partly constricted. Then, breathe in and out through your nose, making a slight sound that is similar to the ocean.\\n"},"category":["yoga_poses"]},{"id":"clg0fojrzxeqr0biq6yvfzdjk","slug":"yoga-for-acid-reflux","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga and Digestion: 8 Poses to Help Ease Acid Reflux Symptoms","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga helps alleviate symptoms of acid reflux and prevent onset by reducing stress and anxiety, activating your digestive system, and improving your posture.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn the best poses for reducing acid reflux.\n","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-04-03T06:11:42.97583+00:00","coverUrl":"ckauzlgegiwd249grkhg.jpg","content":{"text":"If you experience acid reflux on a regular basis, then you’re already familiar with how it typically unfolds. It often starts with a burning sensation in your chest and the repeated urge to burp and let go of accumulated gas. There are lots of reasons why acid reflux occurs, including a number of lifestyle factors like poor diet and emotional stress. Thankfully, yoga can help manage symptoms and reduce episodes if they are stress-related. \\n\\nHow Yoga Helps with Acid Reflux\\nOne of the ways that yoga helps reduce acid reflux is by reducing stress and anxiety. These are the common culprits for acid reflux, because they cause your body to engage in a cascade of fight/flight/freeze responses that includes increased production of stomach acid. By reducing your stress and anxiety, you can help your body avoid switching on that fight/flight/freeze response.\\nAnother way that yoga can reduce acid reflux is through improving your posture and alignment. Poor posture can contribute to chronic acid reflux by placing too much pressure on your stomach and esophagus. Yoga postures that correct your alignment — like Downward Facing Dog and Standing Forward Fold — help relieve this pressure and prevent the onset of acid reflux. It’s important to note that in order to truly improve your posture, you need to practice these poses regularly and for the long term – over time they can help reduce your risk of developing acid reflux in the first place.\\nYoga can also help regulate your digestive system, which is another factor that contributes to acidity. When food gets stuck in your digestive tract, it can cause gas and bloating, slowing your entire digestive system down, which eventually manifests in your stomach with an acidic reaction. By stimulating your digestive system, you can help your body move and process food smoothly through your digestive tract without gas, bloating, or acidity.\\nOne of the most important ways yoga can help prevent acid reflux is by strengthening your diaphragm, which is the muscle that prevents acid from moving up into your esophagus. When the diaphragm is weak or tense, it can actually allow acid reflux to rise up from your stomach and push its way into your esophagus, which is what causes that uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Yoga postures that promote diaphragmatic breathing, such as Seated Forward Fold and Corpse pose can help strengthen this muscle and prevent acid reflux.\n\\n\\n8 Effective Yoga Poses for Acid Reflux\\nIn order to get the most benefit from practicing yoga for acid reflux, it’s recommended that you develop a regular routine that involves performing yoga at least 3-4 times per week for 6-9 months. This isn’t a quick fix, but with a long term commitment you can reduce the onset of acid reflux and improve your overall quality of life.\\nThe poses below are basic, primary yoga poses you can practice in your very own home. If you’re unsure how to practice the postures, or you’d like some professional guidance, try working with one of our certified yoga instructors at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n.\\n1.Mountain Pose\\n\\nStart by standing at the top of your mat with your feet hip distance apart. Balance your weight evenly on both feet. Keep your arms relaxed at your sides, with your spine straight and your chest lifted. Your gaze should be focused straight ahead of you while you breathe easily and gently. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\n\\n2. Standing Forward Fold\\n\\nStand at the front of your mat, feet hip distance apart. Exhale and bend forward from the waist, with your knees slightly bent and touching your hands to the floor in front of your feet. Inhale and exhale, allowing your torso to extend without rounding your back. Lengthen and soften your neck, and let the muscles of your thighs and lower back open and release any built-up tension. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\\n3. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nWith your hands and knees on the floor, push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for several breaths.\\n\\n4. Seated Spinal Twist Pose\\n\\nSitting with your knees bent and your feet tucked in next to your left butt cheek, inhale with your spine straight, lifting your chest. As you exhale, rotate your torso to your right. Position your right hand on the floor just slightly behind you, and rest your left hand on your right knee. On your next breath, rotate a little more as you exhale, turning your head to look over your right shoulder. Hold this pose for 20 to 30 seconds, then repeat on the other side.\\n\\n5. Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\\n6. Child’s pose Pose\\n\\nStart on your hands and knees and then lower yourself down so that your backside is resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Move your hands forward, palms down, so that your forehead is resting on the floor. Allow your spine to lengthen and your neck muscles to fully relax. Breathe deeply and mindfully while staying in this pose for 5-6 minutes.\n\\n7. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nStart by sitting on your yoga mat with your legs stretched out in front of you. Come onto your sit bones and inhale with a straight spine. Raise your arms over your head and as you exhale, begin to bend forward by hinging at your waist. Slowly lower your torso toward the tops of your legs, allowing your spine to curve forward as you reach your legs. Hold this pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n\\n8. Corpse Pose\\n\\nSit on your yoga mat and lower your body to the floor, relaxing your legs and letting your arms rest on the floor at your sides, palms up. Keep your eyes closed and focus on your breathing. Relax the muscles in your face and neck, and visualize every part of your body letting go of all tension. Hold this pose for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["yoga_poses"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"clf6jkhsmy3bl0ak7nevjedbo","slug":"yoga-for-cyclists","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Strengthen Your Cycling Practice with These 10 Essential Yoga Poses","createdAt":"2023-03-13T08:07:26.994932+00:00","coverUrl":"r6u5ncsafm93cnw8uyya.jpg","content":{"text":"Cycling is a sport that can give you a full body workout, and whether you’re recovering from a long ride or looking to elevate your ability to a new level, yoga can help compliment your days on the bike.\\nBoth indoor and outdoor cycling works your glutes, hamstrings, quads, calves and core muscles. Yoga for cycling focuses on stretching and strengthening those muscles for better performance and faster recovery. \\nKeep in mind, alignment is the most important part of each pose. It’s more beneficial to hold each pose correctly than for a lengthy period of time. So, if you’re just starting out with yoga, take it easy on yourself, pay attention to how your body feels, and work on achieving the right alignment for each posture before you progress to longer holds.\\nThe following are poses you can practice at home in the comfort of your own living room. For extra guidance and support, you can also try working with one of our online instructors at \\nMyYogaTeacher.\\n\\nReady to get started?\\n\\n10 Yoga Poses for Cycling\\n1.Cat-Cow Pose\\n\\nThis simple exercise increases mobility in your spine and torso, and gives your core and lower back muscles a stretch — after miles on the bike it’s a welcome cool down.\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n\n\\n2. Downward Facing Dog Pose\\n\\nDownward Facing Dog efficiently stretches your calves and hamstrings, lengthening the muscles after long periods of contraction on the bike. It’s also a great position for stretching your lower back.\\nWith your hands and knees on the floor, push your hips upward until you are balancing on your hands and feet, and your body resembles an inverted “v” shape. Reach your heels toward the floor, stretching your hamstrings and activating your thighs. Keep your head between your arms, lengthening your side-body as you stretch. Stay here for several breaths.\\n\n\\n3. Bridge Pose\\n\\nThis is a pose that stretches and strengthens your muscles at the same time. While stretching your hips and core, Bridge pose strengthens your knees and quads.\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Interlace your fingers on the floor underneath you and lift your hips higher, while staying in the pose for 5-10 breaths.\\n\n\\n4. Plank Pose\\n\\nCycling requires a strong and healthy core. With regular practice of Plank pose, you’ll help your body endure long hours on the bike with decreased soreness.\\nLie face down on your mat, and using your palms to push up from the floor, lift your body until you are balanced on your palms and the toes of your feet. In this pose, your body should be positioned in a straight line, with your gaze directed at the floor in front of you. Hold for a few breaths, or for 30-60 seconds if you are feeling strong in this pose.\\n\n\\n5. Triangle Pose\\n\\nBecause cycling is so taxing for your legs, there is no such thing as too many leg stretching poses. Triangle stretches your hamstrings, glutes, hips and calves, as well as the sides of your torso.\\nFrom a standing position at the top of your mat, slowly move one foot back and position it parallel with the edge of your mat, and your other foot pointing forward in a wide-leg stance. Inhale and stretch out both your arms parallel to the ground. As you exhale, bend at your hip and place the fingertips of your forward-pointing arm at the outside of your forward-pointing foot. Rotate your torso and extend your back arm so that it is pointing straight up. Hold for 3-5 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n\n\\n6. Seated Forward Fold Pose\\n\\nAnother great pose for deeply stretching your lower back, hamstrings and calves, Seated Forward Fold can also be adjusted if you have particularly tight hamstrings. If it feels too intense, try bending your knees and only lowering your torso halfway down.\\nSit on your mat with your legs extended in front of you and your hands resting on your thighs. As you inhale, open your chest and straighten your spine. On your next exhale, bend at the waist, bringing your chest toward your thighs while maintaining a straight spine. Once you’ve lowered about halfway down, allow your spine to round and continue until your forehead touches your knees. Grasp your feet with your hands or you can hook your index and ring fingers around your big toes. Hold this pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\n\\n6. Locust Pose\\n\\nThis is another pose that performs double-duty. It stretches your abdominal muscles while strengthening your back and shoulders for better endurance on the bike.\\nLie face down on your mat, resting your forehead on your forearms and your legs stretched straight out behind you. With an inhale, extend your arms to your sides and lift your lower legs off the mat, keeping your upper legs (thighs and core) flat on the mat. Engage your glutes and press both of your legs together while holding them up. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths.\\n\n\\n7. Sphinx Pose\\n\\nAfter so many hours hunched over the bike, it’s important to practice a few stretches that bend your spine and torso in the opposite direction. Sphinx pose increases your spinal mobility and stretches your abdominal muscles.\\nStart by laying on your mat with your belly facing down. Place your palms on the floor next to you, with your elbows under your shoulders, gently lift your upper body. Your legs should be extended straight back behind you as you hold this pose that resembles the Egyptian Sphinx statue. Open your chest and keep your chin level with the floor, with your gaze facing forward. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes, or longer if you feel comfortable.\\n\n\\n8. Fixed Angle Pose\\n\\nIf you spend a lot of time on the bike, you might have tight hip abductor muscles. Fixed Angle pose, or commonly known as “Cobbler’s pose” stretches your hips and lower back muscles to relieve sore muscles after long rides.\\nSit on your yoga mat with your knees bent and the soles of your feet pressed against each other. With your spine straight, press your hands behind you and gently open up your chest and tuck in your abdomen. Hold the pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n\n\\n9. Supine Figure Four Pose\\n\\nDo you have sore glutes and hips after your rides? This simple stretch can relieve tight glutes and hip abductors.\\nStart by laying down with your back on the floor with both knees bent. Cross your right ankle over your left knee, resembling the shape of a figure four. Place your left hand around your left knee, and thread your right hand through the opening to clasp your hands together around your knee. Inhale, and as you exhale, pull your left knee toward your chest as far as you feel comfortable, and hold for 30-60 seconds. Repeat on the other side.\\n\n\\n10. Pigeon Pose\\n\\n\nThis pose also deeply stretches your quads and hip abductors. It’s also a great pose to release tension and de-stress.\\nStart in Downward Facing Dog. Lift your left leg up behind you, and swing it forward while lowering yourself to the mat. Your left leg should sit bent in front of you with your shin resting on the mat and your right leg extended behind you. With your palms on the floor at your sides for support, inhale and lift your chest. As you exhale, begin to bend forward, rounding your spine as your lower your torso over your left quad. Lower yourself as far as you feel capable, while keeping your hips squared toward the front of your mat. Once your forehead reaches the mat or an otherwise comfortable location, hold this pose for 2-3 minutes. Repeat on the other side."}},{"id":"ckkss4i6g11qk0a81swms978n","slug":"clear-your-chakras","author":{"name":"Abhishek Sharma","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Beginner's Guide to Clearing Chakras | Benefits, Healing & Chanting Chakras","createdAt":"2021-02-05T21:07:01.067503+00:00","coverUrl":"clear-your-chakras_72106447.png","content":{"text":"Maybe you don’t expect to see a chakra clearing session mixed in with yoga classes. The western part of the world tends to be more focused on outward results, and you do yoga because that’s what you want. Results.\\nStrength. Flexibility. Toning. Gentle exercise for an injured or unconditioned body.\\nAnd you know nothing of chakras or chanting or all that other “woo woo” stuff.\\nThe truth is, yoga, chakra clearing, and chanting work together to create harmony with your inner and outer world. They are all forms of meditation!\\n\\nIf you’re new to the woo, then this post will be helpful in understanding why I offer a \\nChakras and Sound Healing class \\nthrough MyYogaTeacher.\\n\\nWhat are Chakras?\\nChakras are energy points in your body that correspond to organs, nerves, and areas of our body that affect our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. We are all made up of energy! Everything is made of energy.\\nSo it is no surprise that energy flows through and around us.\\nWhen your chakras or energy centers are off balance or blocked, you may experience negative emotional or physical symptoms related to a particular chakra.\\n\\nThe 7 Important Types Of Chakras:\\n\\n1. Root chakra (Muladhara): \\n Responsible for your sense of security, stability, and safety.\\n2. Sacral chakra (Svadhisthana):\\n Responsible for sexual and creative energy and linked to how you relate to and connect with others.\\n3. Solar plexus chakra (Manipura):\\n Corresponds to confidence, self-esteem, and helps you feel in control of your life.\\n4. Heart chakra (Anahata):\\n All about our ability to love and show compassion.\\n5. Throat chakra (Vishuddha):\\n Has to do with how we communicate verbally.\\n6. Third eye chakra (Ajna):\\n Linked to intuition and imagination.\\n7. Crown chakra (Sahasrara):\\n Represents your spiritual connection to self, others, and the Universe/God. Also linked to your life’s purpose.\\n\\nHow do you know if you have one or many – or any – blocked chakras? And what does clearing them even mean? Or do?\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nClear Your Chakras and Improve Your Life.\\n\\nHaving balanced chakras (or imbalanced ones) impacts all areas of your life. Chakras are receptors and emitters. They receive and give back energy. You will receive the same frequency of energy back from the world that you emit.\\nAn easily relatable example of this is when you constantly see the negative attributes in someone’s character. The more you talk, think, and explore those negative things, the more you will find. This also works in reverse. When we love someone, we choose to see all the good things in them, which leads us to find more good things. \\nWhen you feel poor, you often act poor. So you receive more of the same. When you are unkind, you are often met with unkindness.\\n\\nThis is energy. Chakra energy.\\n\\nHow to Identify Blocked Chakras :\\n\\n1. Root chakra:\\n Stress about money, digestive issues, arthritis, problems in the legs, feet, tailbone or rectum, prostate issues.\\n2. Sacral chakra:\\n Constant fear of betrayal, sexual or reproductive health issues, hip or lower back pain, urinary or kidney dysfunction.\\n3. Solar plexus chakra:\\n Fear of rejection, digestive issues, chronic fatigue, pancreas or gallbladder problems.\\n4. Heart chakra: \\nFear of being alone, asthma, arm and wrist pain, jealousy or bitterness, upper back or shoulder problems.\\n5. Throat chakra: \\nFear being out of control, thyroid issues, sore throats, ear infections, trouble expressing yourself, neck and shoulder pain.\\n6. Third eye chakra:\\n Moodiness or stubbornness, blurry vision or eye problems, sinus issues, headaches.\\n7. Crown chakra: \\nFear of alienation, rigid thoughts, analysis paralysis.\\n\\nRegularly clearing your chakras through a guided chakra clearing session or by visiting an energy healer will help alleviate many of these symptoms.\\n\\nAnd don’t rule it out as a part of your regular yoga routine!\\n\\nStep-by-Step Beginner's Guide to Clear Chakras :\n\\nChakras are energy centers in your body that are believed to be responsible for different aspects of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. By clearing these energy centers, you can remove blockages that may be preventing you from feeling your best. Here's how to get started:\\n\\nStep 1: Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. It's important to be able to focus your attention on your body and your breath without distractions.\\n\\nStep 2: Take a few deep breaths and close your eyes. Allow yourself to settle into the present moment and let go of any worries or distractions that may be on your mind.\\n\\nStep 3: Start with the root chakra, located at the base of your spine. Visualize a red ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire pelvic area. As you focus on this visualization, repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am safe and secure.\"\\n\\nStep 4: Move up to the sacral chakra, located just below your navel. Visualize an orange ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire lower abdomen. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am creative and passionate.\"\\n\\nStep 5: Next, focus on the solar plexus chakra, located just above your navel. Visualize a yellow ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire upper abdomen. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am confident and empowered.\"\\n\\nStep 6: Move up to the heart chakra, located in the center of your chest. Visualize a green ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire chest. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am loved and loving.\"\\n\\nStep 7: Next, focus on the throat chakra, located at the base of your throat. Visualize a blue ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire throat area. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am honest and expressive.\"\\n\\nStep 8: Move up to the third eye chakra, located in the center of your forehead. Visualize an indigo ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire head. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am intuitive and aware.\"\\n\\nStep 9: Finally, focus on the crown chakra, located at the top of your head. Visualize a violet ball of energy at this location. Imagine this energy ball expanding and filling your entire body. Repeat the following affirmation to yourself: \"I am connected and at peace.\"\\n\\nStep 10: Take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to sit in this state for a few minutes. When you're ready, slowly open your eyes and come back to the present moment.\\n\\nCongratulations, you've just completed a chakra clearing exercise! With regular practice, this can be a powerful tool for enhancing your overall well-being. Remember to stay patient with yourself and enjoy the process.\\n\\nMeditation for Clearing Chakras\\n\\nMeditation is a powerful tool that can be used to clear your chakras and bring your mind and body into a state of balance and harmony. By focusing your attention on your breath and your energy centers, you can release blockages and allow energy to flow freely throughout your body.You may not feel comfortable chanting at the end of your yoga practice. Might want to check on your throat chakra about that (jk)!\\nOr maybe it’s just unfamiliar to you. Why do we do it? What’s the point? \\nSound healing is real. \\nThe practice of using vibrations in order to relax and heal the body has been scientifically proven to be effective.\\nTraditionally, the chanting of “Om” (pronounced “AUM”) happens at the beginning and end of a yoga or meditation session. The letters AUM symbolize the divine energy of Shakti. Shakti is referred to as the “Great Divine Mother” in Hinduism. \\nThe three main characteristics of Shakti are creation, preservation, and liberation.\\nThe sound Om, when done correctly, vibrates at a frequency of 432 Hz, the same frequency as everything throughout nature. It’s a universal sound that helps us connect with ourselves and everything around us.\\nChanting not only helps us open and close our practice, separating it from the rest of our day. It also helps slow down the nervous system and calm the mind.\\nJust as chanting helps calm the mind and connect and ground us to the present, “Namaste” shows respect and reverence for the experience, the Universe, and the other people around you.\\nIt may seem weird to you, but think of it as a handshake of gratitude to your body, your instructor, and the planet that supports you both.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nHow do you Chant Chakras?\\n\\n⁠Chanting is a powerful way to activate and balance your chakras. The vibration of the sound can help to clear blockages and promote the flow of energy through your energy centers. Here's how to get started with chanting your chakras:\\n\\nChoose a chant that resonates with you: There are many different chants and mantras that can be used to activate and balance your chakras. Explore different options and find one that resonates with you. .\\nFind a comfortable and quiet space: Choose a quiet and comfortable space where you won't be disturbed. This can be a room in your house, a quiet outdoor space, or anywhere else that feels calming and peaceful to you.\\nFocus your attention on the specific chakra you want to activate: Each chakra has its own unique sound and vibration. As you chant, focus your attention on the specific chakra you want to activate. For example, if you're working on your heart chakra, you might focus on the sound \"YAM.\"\\nUse deep, intentional breathing: As you chant, use deep and intentional breathing to help you connect with your body and your energy centers. Breathe in slowly and deeply, and exhale slowly and fully.\\nRepeat the chant as many times as you like: You can repeat the chant as many times as you like, whether that's for a few minutes or for an extended period of time. The important thing is to stay focused and present, and to allow the sound of the chant to help you connect with your chakras and promote the flow of energy through your body.\\nFAQs about Clearing Chakras\\n\\nAre chakras scientifically proven? \\nWhile the existence of chakras is not widely accepted within the scientific community, there are studies that have explored the connection between the body's energy centers and overall health and well-being.\\n\\nHow do chakras relate to life purpose? \\nAccording to some spiritual teachings, each chakra is associated with a specific aspect of life and can provide insight into one's life purpose. For example, the heart chakra is associated with love and compassion, while the throat chakra is associated with communication and self-expression.\\n\\nHow often should you clear your chakras? \\nThere is no set schedule for clearing your chakras, but many people find it helpful to do so on a regular basis. You might choose to clear your chakras daily, weekly, or whenever you feel like your energy needs a boost.\\n\\nHow to heal chakras? \\nThere are many different techniques that can be used to heal and balance your chakras. Some popular options include meditation, yoga, energy healing, and sound therapy.\\n\\nWhy does my solar plexus feel weird? \\nThe solar plexus is associated with personal power and self-confidence. If you're feeling a strange sensation in this area, it could be a sign that your solar plexus chakra is out of balance. Consider exploring techniques to balance this energy center, such as practicing self-empowerment or visualizing a ball of bright yellow light in this area.\\n\\nWhat is the chakra for digestion?\\n \\nThe third chakra, located in the solar plexus region, is associated with digestion and metabolism. A balanced solar plexus chakra can help promote healthy digestion and a strong metabolism, while an imbalanced chakra can lead to digestive issues and low energy levels. Techniques such as yoga and meditation can help to balance this energy center and promote digestive health.\\n\\n\\nI encourage you to challenge yourself to a\\n Chakra and Sound Healing session\\n. Feel the difference in your heart, mind, and body afterwards. Pay attention to how it makes you feel. Do any parts of your body ache or hurt less? Is your mind more calm and focused? Do you feel more connected to yourself and nature?\\nThese are some of the benefits you may experience!\\nNot sure about it just yet? \\nmyYogaTeacher offers a 2-week free trial\\n where you have access to my class and many more! Group yoga, meditation, sound healing, and chakra clearing classes from the comfort of your own home. \\nAll are welcome here!"}},{"id":"clct2nkfx04xw0bk3fr4lrcjp","slug":"yoga-poses-for-osteoporosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis: Maintaining Bone Health","createdAt":"2023-01-12T12:33:31.959847+00:00","coverUrl":"pmkhkhuxo5s9dq2qkevm.jpg","content":{"text":"Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis with Yoga\\n\n\\nIf you suffer from the painful symptoms of osteoporosis, or if you are at risk of developing this limiting disease, there is help (and health) in starting your own regular yoga routine. In fact, doctors are now prescribing yoga as treatment and prevention for osteoporosis and osteopenia, making it an important part of maintaining physical health and wellness throughout your 50s and 60s — and beyond.\\n\\nOsteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions that commonly emerge throughout our later years, and if left untreated they can affect your mobility, bone density, and even your ability to remain self-sufficient. These conditions cause bones to be come weak and brittle, and over time more vulnerable to fractures and even breakage. \\n\\nBut a recent\\n \\n2016 study\\n discovered that yoga can be used in conjunction with other treatments to prevent the loss of bone density and in some cases reverse early onset of osteoporosis. Plus, as an added benefit, yoga is also a low-cost and low-risk treatment option, meaning there is little to lose by giving it a try.\\n\\nHow Yoga Can Treat Osteoporosis\\nThe process by which yoga treats and prevents osteoporosis is simple — through stretching and strengthening your muscle tissue you can build bone density and prevent fractures. Yoga postures exert subtle force upon your bones, prompting them to build up density and become stronger.\\n\\nYoga also improves your balance, which can help prevent falls — which may result in fractures or breakage. Along with building strength and flexibility, yoga also increases your mobility, endurance, and energy levels, helping you stay active no matter your age.\\n\\nIt should be noted that yoga may not cure osteoporosis on its own, and for some advanced cases it may not be effective in reversing this disease. Results vary on an individual basis, depending on your age, bone density, and other factors such as weight and co-existing conditions\\n\\nPracticing Yoga for Osteoporosis\\nIf you’re thinking of starting your own yoga regimen to prevent or reverse osteoporosis, there are a few things you should know. It’s important to first consult your doctor before practicing yoga for osteoporosis or osteopenia, to find out if there are any specific precautions you should be taking and whether or not it’s a safe activity for you. \n\\nPatients with advanced osteoporosis who have suffered fractures, breaks, or acute bone loss may need to avoid practicing yoga. If you’ve recently undergone surgery or if you’re still healing from an injury, you should wait until you’ve fully recovered before getting started.\n\\nMost importantly, you should take care to listen to your body when practicing yoga for osteoporosis. If a particular yoga pose causes pain or strain on your bones or joints, stop for a moment and take a break. Or, try using a modification like a bolster, block, or yoga blanket if applicable.\\n\\nIn their 2016 study, scientists found that the best results for using yoga as treatment for osteoporosis came from regular practice. Try performing yoga poses at least 3-4 times per week, or daily if you can. The more regularly you practice, the more bone density you’ll build, and the more strength and balance you’ll develop in your body.\\n\\n8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis:\\nIf you’ve been cleared by your doctor to practice yoga and you’re ready to get started, there are some simple yoga poses you can do at home to help prevent osteoporosis. You can also try taking a yoga class specifically designed for patients with osteoporosis. Here at\\n \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n, certified instructors can help you stay safe and injury free while giving you the independence to practice yoga in the comfort of your home.\\nReady to get started? \\nFollow the steps below to begin your own personal yoga journey.\\n\\n1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana)\\n\\nThe foundation of all balance poses, Mountain pose helps you find stability and improve your posture.\\nStart by standing at the front of your mat. Keep your feet hip distance apart, and you can rest your arms at your sides or bring your hands together in prayer formation. Inhale and feel your chest opening and your collar bones widening as you focus on balancing your weight proportionally on both of your feet. Gaze straight forward and maintain this pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n \\n2. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)\\n\\nFrom Mountain pose, you’ll begin to transition into Tree pose to further improve your balance and stability.\\nBring your awareness to your left foot and firmly ground it into the mat. Begin to shift your body weight to your left foot, while gently lifting your right foot. Depending on your ability to balance, you can place the sole of your right foot on your left calf or thigh. As you do this, be sure to keep your pelvis aligned, your spine straight, and your gaze focused forward. Give yourself a moment to steady yourself, and then, if you feel comfortable, press your hands together in prayer formation. Hold for 5-6 deep breaths and repeat on the other side, then return to Mountain pose.\\n \\n3. Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana 2)\\n\\nThis standing pose also improves your balance and builds strength in your legs and core. If you have trouble balancing and wish to modify this pose, try practicing it next to a wall or with a chair.\\nMove to the back portion of your mat and step your right foot forward. Your right toes should be pointed forward and your left (back) foot should be kept parallel with your mat. Bend your right knee at 90 degrees, taking care not to overextend. Your right knee should not move forward past your toes. With your hips evenly squared, stretch your arms out to both sides, so that your right arm extended out in front of you and your left arm behind you. Open your chest and focus on activating your legs so that you are grounded into your mat. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n4. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)\\n\\nThis pose also requires strength and balance, and can be modified by performing it next to a wall. You can also place a block next to your front foot for easier hand positioning. \\nJust like with Warrior II, step your right foot forward for Triangle pose, keeping your left (back) foot parallel with your mat. Inhale and stretch out both your arms the same as in Warrior II, but keep your right leg straight with a slight, soft bend in your knee. As you exhale, hinge at your hip  and bend forward, placing your right fingertips on the floor, or you can place your hand on the block positioned next to your right foot. Turn your upper body and reach your left hand toward the ceiling, and either turn your head to gaze up at your hand, or keep your eyes focused straight ahead. Hold for 3-5 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n5. Cat-Cow Pose (Chakravakasana)\\n\\nThis pose is excellent for increasing mobility in your spine and hips.\\nMove to a tabletop position on your mat, with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. Feel the stretch in your chest and abdomen. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n \\n6. Locust Pose (Shalabhasana)\\n\\nLike Cat-Cow, Locust improves your spinal mobility with a soft backbend, but in this pose you will also be working your core muscles, glutes, and shoulders.\\nFrom Cat-Cow, lower yourself onto the mat so that you are lying face down on your stomach with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides. On your inhale, strengthen your core and lift your head, legs and arms at the same time, balancing your body on your lower abdomen, pelvis and upper legs. Engage your glutes and press both of your legs together while holding them up. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths, and then relax back onto your mat.\\n \\n7. Child’s Pose (Balasana)\\n\\nAfter the strengthening work of Locust pose, give your body a rest with Child’s pose\\nAfter Locust you’ve likely returned to lying face down on your mat. Press your palms and knees into the floor as if you were rising back into tabletop position, but this time bring your hips back so that your buttocks are resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Extend your arms forward so that your palms are resting on the mat in front of you, and bring your forehead to the mat. Breathe gently and allow your body to fully sink into this pose, supported by the floor. Hold for 5-6 minutes.\\n \\n8. Corpse Pose (Savasana)\\n\\nAfter practicing the above stretching and strengthening poses, it’s important to let your body fully digest the movement by resting in Corpse pose. \\nCome to a seated position on your mat. Slowly lower your body to the floor, so that you are lying flat on your back with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and bring your focus inward. Bring your awareness to your body and check in with each and every body part, noticing if you feel any tension and allowing yourself to fully relax. Soften your face, neck, and shoulders, and let yourself melt into your mat while visualizing any tension leaving your body. Rest in this post for 5-7 minutes."}}],"relatedPosts":[],"blogContent":{"id":"ckfqznm8g02d30179z6025ws1","slug":"how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"How I went from anxiety and depression to peace and joy!","createdAt":"2020-06-03T00:00:00+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-08-01T06:31:15.574603+00:00","coverUrl":"Will-cover.jpg","seoDescription":"I was looking for deep-happiness and less anxiety. Yoga has helped me get rid of depression and anxiety and achieve peace and happiness.","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","html":"<p>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.</p><p></p><p>You see, I&#39;m not a natural yogi. I&#39;m not all Zen and infinite positivity.</p><p></p><p>I&#39;m an engineer. I have an analytical, 1000 mph mind full of scientific facts and equations. Logical solutions to every speed-bump and challenge.</p><p></p><p>I used to subcontract for NASA. I&#39;d fly around to different bases, run structural analysis on new masts, sensors and solar arrays we&#39;d be sending into orbit.</p><p></p><p>Basically, I had a lucrative career that my friends admired. My family was proud and my life looked great.</p><p></p><p>But inside. Inside I was a mess... I was angry, anxious, mildly-depressed, and most of all, Unhappy!</p><p></p><p>I 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.</p><p></p><p>But nothing real and deep. Not the happiness that touches your heart and makes you spontaneously grateful.</p><p></p><p>The 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&#39;s wrong.</p><p></p><p>I needed to make big changes.</p><p></p><p>I needed to find the answer to one big question. &quot;How can I be happy, stop living in anxiety, and start living MY life?&quot;</p><p></p><p>I had no idea how to answer that question. But I knew I wouldn&#39;t find it sitting at my desk running computer simulations of shuttle launch conditions.</p><p></p><p>So I did the only thing I could think of, something crazy and irrational in my friend&#39;s eyes. Stupid in my parent&#39;s eyes!</p><p></p><p>I quit my job and left the US to travel and do some &quot;soul-searching&quot;. ... crazy right? Right.</p><p></p><p>Well 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.</p><p></p><p>I 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.</p><p></p><p>BUT... and this is a big &#39;but&#39;.</p><p></p><p>As 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.</p><p></p><p>It was hopeless!</p><p></p><p>I couldn&#39;t go back to a life of desk-work. Where every soul-sucking minute still haunted my nightmares. But I wasn&#39;t finding any real change by just wandering the world going on adventures either.</p><p></p><p>I always succeeded in school and work. But in life, I had just proven myself an epic failure. I was crushed... desperate.</p><p></p><p>Then, by sheer chance, I ended up in a Buddhist <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">meditation</a> retreat in Dharmashala, India - McLeod Ganj where the Tibetan government in exile is.</p><p></p><p>That was the beginning of HUGE changes for me. I started meditating daily and reading tons of books about Buddhism, meditation, compassion, yoga, eastern philosophy.</p><p></p><p>And you know what?</p><p></p><p>Pretty soon... I was right back where I started. Same patterns, same dissatisfaction, same everything.</p><p></p><p>But 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 &#39;just right&#39;!</p><p></p><p>For 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.</p><p></p><p>That&#39;s when the real breakthrough happened. I found a place where I could <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\">practice yoga</a> and meditation. A retreat center in Mexico, in a little beach town on the Pacific Coast.</p><p></p><p>There 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.</p><p></p><p>With this personal attention, immediate feedback and guidance, I started stabilizing in peace, joy and fulfillment.</p><p></p><p>Can you guess what the biggest change was?</p><p></p><p>I realized, I didn&#39;t need to run away from my old life, society, or anything like that to be happy.</p><p></p><p>You always hear things like &quot;happiness comes from within&quot; - but it&#39;s kind of pointless to know that - and not live it!</p><p></p><p>So now, I&#39;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.</p><p></p><p>And I am so grateful that my work gives you the same opportunity I had. You don&#39;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.</p><p></p><p>So 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.</p><p></p><p>I get to be part of a team making meaningful change in the world and positively impacting the lives of everyone we serve.</p><p></p><p>Thanks so much for reading all of this and I sincerely hope you enjoy (and live the benefits of) your time with myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>I&#39;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 </p><p></p><p>Your friend in Peace and Joy,Will</p><p></p>"},"category":["anxiety","mental_health"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>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.</p><p></p><p>You see, I&#39;m not a natural yogi. I&#39;m not all Zen and infinite positivity.</p><p></p><p>I&#39;m an engineer. I have an analytical, 1000 mph mind full of scientific facts and equations. Logical solutions to every speed-bump and challenge.</p><p></p><p>I used to subcontract for NASA. I&#39;d fly around to different bases, run structural analysis on new masts, sensors and solar arrays we&#39;d be sending into orbit.</p><p></p><p>Basically, I had a lucrative career that my friends admired. My family was proud and my life looked great.</p><p></p><p>But inside. Inside I was a mess... I was angry, anxious, mildly-depressed, and most of all, Unhappy!</p><p></p><p>I 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.</p><p></p><p>But nothing real and deep. Not the happiness that touches your heart and makes you spontaneously grateful.</p><p></p><p>The 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&#39;s wrong.</p><p></p><p>I needed to make big changes.</p><p></p><p>I needed to find the answer to one big question. &quot;How can I be happy, stop living in anxiety, and start living MY life?&quot;</p><p></p><p>I had no idea how to answer that question. But I knew I wouldn&#39;t find it sitting at my desk running computer simulations of shuttle launch conditions.</p><p></p><p>So I did the only thing I could think of, something crazy and irrational in my friend&#39;s eyes. Stupid in my parent&#39;s eyes!</p><p></p><p>I quit my job and left the US to travel and do some &quot;soul-searching&quot;. ... crazy right? Right.</p><p></p><p>Well 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.</p><p></p><p>I 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.</p><p></p><p>BUT... and this is a big &#39;but&#39;.</p><p></p><p>As 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.</p><p></p><p>It was hopeless!</p><p></p><p>I couldn&#39;t go back to a life of desk-work. Where every soul-sucking minute still haunted my nightmares. But I wasn&#39;t finding any real change by just wandering the world going on adventures either.</p><p></p><p>I always succeeded in school and work. But in life, I had just proven myself an epic failure. I was crushed... desperate.</p><p></p><p>Then, by sheer chance, I ended up in a Buddhist <a\n            class=\"inline-cta\"\n            id=db260480-5a89-4d2c-84f0-825e1855dcb9\n            href=\"/signup?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckfqznm8g02d30179z6025ws1&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=How I went from anxiety and depression to peace and joy!&entity_slug=how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy&page_or_popup=/articles/how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n            onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"db260480-5a89-4d2c-84f0-825e1855dcb9\")\n            title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n            data-title=\"How I went from anxiety and depression to peace and joy!\"\n            data-slug=\"how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy\"\n            <u>meditation</a></u>        \n            </a> retreat in Dharmashala, India - McLeod Ganj where the Tibetan government in exile is.</p><p></p><p>That was the beginning of HUGE changes for me. I started meditating daily and reading tons of books about Buddhism, meditation, compassion, yoga, eastern philosophy.</p><p></p><p>And you know what?</p><p></p><p>Pretty soon... I was right back where I started. Same patterns, same dissatisfaction, same everything.</p><p></p><p>But 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 &#39;just right&#39;!</p><p></p><p>For 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.</p><p></p><p>That&#39;s when the real breakthrough happened. I found a place where I could <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\">practice yoga</a> and meditation. A retreat center in Mexico, in a little beach town on the Pacific Coast.</p><p></p><p>There 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.</p><p></p><p>With this personal attention, immediate feedback and guidance, I started stabilizing in peace, joy and fulfillment.</p><p></p><p>Can you guess what the biggest change was?</p><p></p><p>I realized, I didn&#39;t need to run away from my old life, society, or anything like that to be happy.</p><p></p><p>You always hear things like &quot;happiness comes from within&quot; - but it&#39;s kind of pointless to know that - and not live it!</p><p></p><p>So now, I&#39;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.</p><p></p><p>And I am so grateful that my work gives you the same opportunity I had. You don&#39;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.</p><p></p><p>So 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.</p><p></p><p>I get to be part of a team making meaningful change in the world and positively impacting the lives of everyone we serve.</p><p></p><p>Thanks so much for reading all of this and I sincerely hope you enjoy (and live the benefits of) your time with myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>I&#39;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 </p><p></p><p>Your friend in Peace and Joy,Will</p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"signup","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz37hsu0cj0a76mgb4594m","name":"[CTA-FREECLASS]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz4d5stsye0b75dtlx1w0n","name":"[CTA-TRENDS]","description":{"html":"<p>Get ahead of the next trend and practice with authentic Indian yoga teachers! Sign up today and <strong>get 2 free private yoga sessions PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong>. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Practice with Authentic Indian Yoga Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz6nq0tqdr0c258titvagg","name":"[CTA-REVIEWS]","description":{"html":"<p>Find out what all the hype is about! <strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>103,478 Happy Students &amp; 12,086 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reviews</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckxrz7nzktu400b752fym6wpw","name":"[CTA-HATHA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private hatha yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(including tons of daily Hatha yoga classes). No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Hatha Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>with Authentic Indian Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cky90p88g3zgc0d23yz6taont","name":"[CTA-NASAL]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>to relieve post nasal drip and clear out your sinus. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic Indian yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Post Nasal Drip &amp; Clear Your Sinus Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyirvl8g25ce0c70cldmca2g","name":"[CTA-TRATAKA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>with experienced Trataka teachers. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Candle Gazing Meditation) with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Learn Trataka (Candle Gazing) Meditation Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyisqh482ck60b79rp1r1jcg","name":"[CTA-YIN]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong>, work with an experienced yoga therapist to reduce (and even eliminate) your back pain. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Yoga for Back Pain’) with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Therapy – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Relieve Back Pain Safely &amp; Effectively Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyitki4w2liz0b30tqpzhy4i","name":"[CTA-KRIYA]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions </strong>for Kriya Yoga, Pranayama, and Meditation <strong>and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic yoga teachers. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Classes – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Practice Kriya, Pranayama, and Meditation Today!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyitxgyg2pot0b79lu1fcpp1","name":"[CTA-BREATH]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions </strong>for yogic breathing techniques (pranayama) and <strong>2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong>, like ‘Stretch and Breathe’, ‘Kriya, Pranayama, and Meditation’, and many others. No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong> Learn Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Pranayama!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckykb6i2o1o7f0b368s1m7qow","name":"[CTA-LYMPHATIC]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong> for lymphatic drainage &amp; immunity enhancement. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group yoga classes</strong> (including daily yin-yoga) when you sign up today! No credit card required to sign up.</p><p></p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions –  </strong><u><strong>Live &amp; Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>for Lymphatic Drainage &amp; Boosting Your Immune System!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl2vqlpyfe3yh0biohgxyx2hg","name":"[CTA-LEAD]","description":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl4gnwnrlga640ck37gutx7sn","name":"[CTA-GC]","description":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"}],"post":{"id":"ckfqznm8g02d30179z6025ws1","slug":"how-i-went-from-anxiety-and-depression-to-peace-and-joy","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"How I went from anxiety and depression to peace and joy!","createdAt":"2020-06-03T00:00:00+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-08-01T06:31:15.574603+00:00","coverUrl":"Will-cover.jpg","seoDescription":"I was looking for deep-happiness and less anxiety. Yoga has helped me get rid of depression and anxiety and achieve peace and happiness.","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","html":"<p>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.</p><p></p><p>You see, I&#39;m not a natural yogi. I&#39;m not all Zen and infinite positivity.</p><p></p><p>I&#39;m an engineer. I have an analytical, 1000 mph mind full of scientific facts and equations. Logical solutions to every speed-bump and challenge.</p><p></p><p>I used to subcontract for NASA. I&#39;d fly around to different bases, run structural analysis on new masts, sensors and solar arrays we&#39;d be sending into orbit.</p><p></p><p>Basically, I had a lucrative career that my friends admired. My family was proud and my life looked great.</p><p></p><p>But inside. Inside I was a mess... I was angry, anxious, mildly-depressed, and most of all, Unhappy!</p><p></p><p>I 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.</p><p></p><p>But nothing real and deep. Not the happiness that touches your heart and makes you spontaneously grateful.</p><p></p><p>The 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&#39;s wrong.</p><p></p><p>I needed to make big changes.</p><p></p><p>I needed to find the answer to one big question. &quot;How can I be happy, stop living in anxiety, and start living MY life?&quot;</p><p></p><p>I had no idea how to answer that question. But I knew I wouldn&#39;t find it sitting at my desk running computer simulations of shuttle launch conditions.</p><p></p><p>So I did the only thing I could think of, something crazy and irrational in my friend&#39;s eyes. Stupid in my parent&#39;s eyes!</p><p></p><p>I quit my job and left the US to travel and do some &quot;soul-searching&quot;. ... crazy right? Right.</p><p></p><p>Well 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.</p><p></p><p>I 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.</p><p></p><p>BUT... and this is a big &#39;but&#39;.</p><p></p><p>As 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.</p><p></p><p>It was hopeless!</p><p></p><p>I couldn&#39;t go back to a life of desk-work. Where every soul-sucking minute still haunted my nightmares. But I wasn&#39;t finding any real change by just wandering the world going on adventures either.</p><p></p><p>I always succeeded in school and work. But in life, I had just proven myself an epic failure. I was crushed... desperate.</p><p></p><p>Then, by sheer chance, I ended up in a Buddhist <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">meditation</a> retreat in Dharmashala, India - McLeod Ganj where the Tibetan government in exile is.</p><p></p><p>That was the beginning of HUGE changes for me. I started meditating daily and reading tons of books about Buddhism, meditation, compassion, yoga, eastern philosophy.</p><p></p><p>And you know what?</p><p></p><p>Pretty soon... I was right back where I started. Same patterns, same dissatisfaction, same everything.</p><p></p><p>But 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 &#39;just right&#39;!</p><p></p><p>For 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.</p><p></p><p>That&#39;s when the real breakthrough happened. I found a place where I could <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/\">practice yoga</a> and meditation. A retreat center in Mexico, in a little beach town on the Pacific Coast.</p><p></p><p>There 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.</p><p></p><p>With this personal attention, immediate feedback and guidance, I started stabilizing in peace, joy and fulfillment.</p><p></p><p>Can you guess what the biggest change was?</p><p></p><p>I realized, I didn&#39;t need to run away from my old life, society, or anything like that to be happy.</p><p></p><p>You always hear things like &quot;happiness comes from within&quot; - but it&#39;s kind of pointless to know that - and not live it!</p><p></p><p>So now, I&#39;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.</p><p></p><p>And I am so grateful that my work gives you the same opportunity I had. You don&#39;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.</p><p></p><p>So 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.</p><p></p><p>I get to be part of a team making meaningful change in the world and positively impacting the lives of everyone we serve.</p><p></p><p>Thanks so much for reading all of this and I sincerely hope you enjoy (and live the benefits of) your time with myYogaTeacher.</p><p></p><p>I&#39;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 </p><p></p><p>Your friend in Peace and Joy,Will</p><p></p>"},"category":["anxiety","mental_health"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":null}