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Benefits of Relaxation in Yoga

The benefits of Yoga relaxation are innumerable and encompass the physical, mental and emotional aspects of life. In fact, this may be cited as one of the single most powerful reasons for people taking up Yoga practice. Yoga has proven itself the only complete, holistic science and art of living that encompasses, within its many disciplines, the art of workouts as well as relaxation. Most other workout cultures send you packing home after a grueling schedule. But in Yoga, it is ensured that after an asana (Yoga poses) session, you are well relaxed. This relaxation is so deep and profound; it pervades your entire being and benefits you at the deepest levels, so much so that you are encouraged to practise it at home as well, or in the office or other workplaces even. Relaxation is an integral aspect of fitness and is also the most often neglected in fitness regimens.

There are many forms of relaxation, even in Yoga, but the three most predominant are Shavasana (Corpse pose), Nispanda Bhava (Unmoving Observation), Dhrdasana and Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep). These techniques are designed to, relax you physically, mentally and emotionally. For instance, in Shavasana (Corpse pose), the practitioner is given autosuggestions, and ends up giving himself or herself autosuggestions to relax. These autosuggestions cover every part of the body from toe to tip of the head and, typically, go as follows: "I am relaxing my toes, my toes are totally and completely relaxed." So on and so forth, till one covers the entire body, mind and heart.

Likewise, in Nispanda Bhava (Unmoving Observation), you are seated, with your eyes closed and listen to sounds as a mere witness, without, in any way getting involved or disturbed. Over time, this grows on you and you learn to practise it in public and even extremely noisy places, undisturbed. Dhrdasana and Yoga Nidra (Yogic Sleep) are also relaxing techniques; in the former you lie on one side and relax calmly, as if asleep, but fully awake and aware.

Most of modern mankind's problems stem from our inability to fully relax, as proven by medical science. The hustle and bustle, stress and tension of everyday life only contribute to the emergence of a population of disturbed, distressed, anxious, uneasy, worried, and traumatized men and women desperately seeking comfort and relief. They often end up at Yoga Institutes and continue to remain there, largely owing to the benefits its relaxation techniques offer.

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