Matthew Burrell N.D.
Naturopath and Neuromuscular Therapist
If you have visited any of the team at Claridge Naturopathics, I am sure you would have been introduced to the benefits of yoga, meditation, and nasal breathing.
Yoga enhances physical well-being by improving range of motion, reducing muscle tension, and preventing injuries. It also promotes mental relaxation, helping to lower stress and anxiety.
Yoga practices that include meditation and nasal breathing particularly provide both the physical and mental relaxation effects. These could include a lowered blood pressure, improved breathing and more restful sleep.
Clinical studies are uncovering the positive chemical changes in the brain that result from practicing yoga.
Currently, anxiety disorders are the most commonly occurring psychiatric condition in the world, affecting around 16% of the global population at some point in their lifetime (1). Research shows that Australians are not immune to the impacts of debilitating stress, low moods, and heightened anxiety.
So, what could be a key factor behind this?
Our nervous system plays a crucial role in regulating our body’s response to activity and stress. One part speeds us up when we’re active or under pressure, while another helps us slow down and relax. When these systems become dysregulated or out of sync, it can lead to imbalance and increased stress.
A systematic review of yoga practices assessed various biological signals, including heart rate variability (HRV), electrocardiogram (ECG), Electroencephalogram (EEG) and Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). These tests assess electrical signalling and wavelengths within the brain and heart which influence muscle and heart activity. Incorporating movement, breathwork and mindfulness into your daily habits has been shown to favourably improve these findings.
If you are looking for a natural way to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and support your overall well-being, why not give yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness a try? Start small—take a few deep nasal breaths, stretch your body, or set aside a few minutes for meditation.
Your mind and body will thank you!
If you have questions or want to learn more, feel free to make an appointment by calling our friendly reception team on (03) 5221 8220, or book online via our website.
As we would love to continue to support you.
Have a great week.
Matt
References:
- Khajuria A, Kumar A, Joshi D, Kumaran SS. Reducing stress with yoga: A systematic review based on multimodal biosignals. Int J Yoga 2023;16:156-70
