As the festivities are beginning and the busyness of December is about to roll in, all the things on your to-do list and activities planned may feel overwhelming and even stressful. You take a deep breath and look away from your jam-packed calendar, but you feel no better. Well, I've got you covered. I've got three ways you can instantly destress and find a sense of calm.
1. Humming
Humming activates your vocal cords and the muscles at the back of your throat, stimulating your vagus nerve.
Humming also activates cranial nerve nine - the Glossopharyngeal - to decrease sympathetic tone, allowing you to find a sense of calm. Try humming in a low key along to the sounds around you, or doing Bhramari breath.
2. Look Away
You may have used different Drishtis (gazes) in yoga, but often our eyes are drawn to what is in front of us, our phones, screens and tasks. Next time you go on a walk, look to the distance and enjoy the scenery.
How?
1. Bring your thumb as close to your face and your eyes focusing on the thumb.
2. Extend your arm, then look out to the distance (look out of a window if possible) until in focus.
3. Take a breath, close the eyes and draw the thumb back towards you.
4. Repeat 10 times.
3. Physiological Sigh
The physiological sigh mimics the breath pattern our body does in deep sleep and when we're in a high state of stress, like sobbing, because it offloads CO2 and slows the heart rate down. Within 20 seconds of the breath, you can feel yourself become calmer.
How?
1. Take two sharp inhales through the nose.
2. Slow sigh out through the mouth.
If needed, take some normal breaths before repeating twice more.
YOGA WORKSHOP
Join me this Saturday, where we will destress and find some calm and inner peace before the festivities begin. Enjoy 2 hours of goodness for your mind and body 🤍
Only 5 spaces remaining 🤍 join with a buddy for £5 off each! More information here.
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