Yoga to Soothe Your Nervous System
For many of us, overwhelm and anxiety are a regular occurance. Some people may experience this more mildly, and for others, this experience may be severely debilitating. That is why it is so necessary to find healthy ways to cope and self soothe, and yoga paired with positive self talk is one of the best ways to do so.
Read on as I share 3 yoga poses paired with affirmations to help you shift out of your anxious mind, and come back to feeling safe, grounded, and at ease.
Child’s Pose
Starting on your hands and knees in TableTop position, widen your knees as much as feels good, bringing the big toes to touch. Send your hips back to your heels and walk your hands forward, melting your heart towards the earth.
Feel safe, protected, and grounded here.
Repeat this affirmation 3 times while resting in the pose:
I am safe. I can relax and let go.
Seated forward fold:
Sitting tall, extend both legs out straight in front of you. If this is uncomfortable, feel free to generously bend the knees.
When ready, fold forward from the hips, and rest in your fold.
Repeat this affirmation 3 times while resting in the pose:
I breathe deep and know that all is well.
Butterfly fold:
Sitting tall, bring the soles of your feet together, allowing the knees to fall open. Bring your hands to the low legs or ankles and fold over from the hips when you are ready. Feel free to stack some blankets, pillows, or yoga blocks under your forehead for support.
Repeat this affirmation 3 times while resting in the pose:
I am enough. I have enough. I do enough.
Supine Twists:
Lying on your back, hug both knees into the chest. Drop both knees to one side, extending the opposite arm straight out (in opposite direction as the knees). Feel free to bring a pillow or blanket beneath or under the knees for greater support.
Repeat this affirmation 3 times while resting in the pose:
I give myself permission to let go of stress and worry. I am safe to do this now.
Next time you feel the need for support, give this mini flow a try. If you’re short on time, choose just one. Practice this in bed, on a lunch break, or any other time you need care.
May you be well, safe, and loved.