Clear Your Mind, Open Your Heart
It is so easy to be lost in a sea of thoughts, responsibilities and emotions that we are inundated with dozens more because trying to keep up. We all need peace and clarity in our lives because it helps us balanced. Mindful yoga (Weniger 2020) combines mindful breathing with movement to facilitate mental clarity and emotional openness better.
The Power of Breath
We all breathe, it is a basic function of life but not many of us use breathing to its extent. By focusing on our breath, we are grounding ourselves in the moment and this can calm anxiety. Breathwork allows us to stop, think about our own way of thinking (without making a decision) Breathing, really deep intentional breaths bring back a sense of clarity and release the unwanted hijackers.
Breathing Integration Methods
- Deep Breathing: Sit comfortably and take a deep breath in through your nose, allowing your stomach to rise. Hold there for a second or two and exhale slowly through your mouth. Do this several more times, paying attention only to your breath.
- Box Breathing:This combination involves breathing in for a count of 4, holding for 4, outation for 4 and then another pause (also called four-fold breath). It gives balance to the nervous system and stimulates peace.
Movement as a Path to Clarity
When it comes to releasing stored tension in the body, you might find that movement could be one of your most powerful tools — yoga…dancing,…even just stretching. Fitness contributes to a healthier body and emotional well-being. When we shift things physically, it creates space for stuck energy to move and emotions can come up in a way that they may not have before.
Ways to Move
- Yoga, asanas: Since yoga practice combines breathing with body movement and helps stretch and makes muscles strong while calming the mind.
- Dance: Lose yourself in the music as it can be a joyful expression of your emotions and clear an overthinking brain.
- Take a Walk: A leisurely walk in your neighbourhood or on one of the beautiful trails can reset and refuel you by being present with nature around you.
Embracing Your Heart
Opening up your heart is more than about allowing yourself to be emotional or vulnerable – it's also an invitation for connection, love and compassion. And when we free up our minds by dropping that baggage, then there is room for compassion and love.
Cultivating Openness
- Be Grateful: Everyday takes a moment and think about all the good things that you have in your life which will help to develop an attitude of gratitude.
- Listen Actively — Actually listen to what others are saying, with no interruptions. It helps you build relationships and stay in the now.
Conclusion
A life of peace, clarity and connection.Source by emptying your mind and opening up yourself. Adopt the techniques that feel good to you — be it through breath, movement or from opening up your emotional spaces. Begin today and get a little closer to realizing your balanced life.