Yoga And Positive Thinking

Although there are no specific yoga postures for positive thinking there are certain asanas that can help promote positive thinking and positive energy.

Asanas or postures and poses as they are more commonly known are the third of Patanjali’s 8 Limbs of Yoga.

1. Yamas (codes of social conduct)
2. Niyamas (self observances and self discipline)
3. Asanas (postures)
4. Pranayama (breath)
5. Pratyahora (non attachment)
6. Dharana (concentration)
7. Dhyana (meditation and contemplation)
8. Samadhi (realization of true-self)

Along with asanas,  pranayama, relaxation and meditation are also very influential in encouraging positive thinking and help promote all round emotional and physical wellbeing.

Pranayama

Pranayama, the fourth limb of yoga follows asanas and is all about the breath. The breath is our life force and controlling our breath helps us focus our mind and this is very important for concentration and meditation.

In yoga the breath is used to direct the flow of our prana (life force) through our body.

Relaxation

Relaxation is a fundamental part of yoga. It brings a stillness to our mind and body and not only is it the first step to meditation as it promotes a calm and de-cluttered mind but it also increases blood flow bringing oxygen and nutrients to our vital organs.

Meditation

Meditation or mindfulness is another term for living in the moment and concentrating on the here and now. Meditation not only allows you to help focus your mind but staying calm and focused in the moment can help bring your nervous system back to balance which is great for eliminating stress and negative energy.

Yoga Asanas That Encourage Positive Energy:

Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)

• Standing in Mountain Pose with your feet 4/5 ft apart.
• Turn your right foot out to a 90-degree angle and your left foot in at 45-degrees.
• On the inhale extend arms out to the sides at shoulder level with your palms facing down and your torso facing forward.
• On the exhale bend your right knee so it’s in line with your right heel and the right thigh parallel to the floor so your leg is at a right angle.
• Your left leg should be straight and the soles of your feet pushed into the floor.

Repeat on the other side

Hero Pose (Virasana)

• Kneeling down with your thighs and ankles together and your toes tucked under your buttocks.
• Lengthen your tailbone and sit up straight and tall.
• Looking straight ahead, rest the palms of your hands on your thighs and relax your shoulders.
• Use a foam block or blanket underneath your buttocks if your sacrum doesn’t touch the floor.
• Sit here for a few breaths.
• As the ankles get stronger you can stay in the pose for longer.

Easy Pose (Sukhasana)

• Start by sitting on the floor in a cross-legged position with your right ankle crossed over your left. I like to sit on a foam block or blanket to give me a little extra height and comfort.
• Relax your legs down as close to the floor as you comfortably can.
• Place your palms on your knees.
• Lengthen your tailbone and sit up tall and straight.

Sit here for a couple of minutes and then change the cross of your legs so you achieve balance on both sides.