Yoga practitioners develop self observation skills even during the relaxation at the end of the yoga class. Relaxation exercises are a welcome end to a yoga class; and it is very common to hear a comment like, “Ah, this is the best part” when it is time for shavasana, the corpse pose. Most times we remain alert while relaxing, though hearing a snore, even our own, will definitely perk us up more.
Researchers, from Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana (SVYASA) and Bangalore Institute of Oncology (BIO), tested yoga relaxation techniques on those living with breast cancer in second and third stage and found that the exercises were not only successful in fighting the side effects of the ailment, but also helped maintain immunity levels to fight the disease.
Yoga techniques include poses, breathing, hand positions, meditation and relaxation. Singling out relaxation, there are at least ten yogic relaxation techniques to quiet the mind and relax muscle tension. Benefits from relaxing mind and body affect us physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. They include:
- Reduced muscle tension
- Increased productivity
- Contributes to increased energy levels
- Increase ability to communicate with others
- Reduction in compulsive and impulsive behaviour
- Increased self acceptance and inner peace
- Reduction of stress related physical symptoms
Self-observation and self assessment can be an ongoing practice, on and off the mat. In a formal yoga on the mat practice, we can pay attention to many intricate details of our physical body. And on the other hand, we may find that simply being aware of whether we are maintaining length in the spine, might suffice for self assessment of the physical.
Moving with the breath, or maintaining awareness of the movement of breath while we hold a pose, develops self-observation. And on a more subtle level, awareness and self assessment of how grounded we are, or how much lightness we experience could keep us balanced energetically.
On deeper levels, as we remain steady in the pose, we might observe how much sadness our heart holds, and/or how much determination we feel. The longer we are able to hold the pose, we may observe ourselves enveloped with feelings of softness, surrender or courage.
The more we are able to connect with all levels of our being, the more we improve health and foster the sense of well being. Energy follows our attention.
How are you developing your self-observation skills as you relate to the world?
