Best yoga for overthinkers: Try out these 7 poses for mental clarity

Best yoga for overthinkers: Try out these 7 poses for mental clarity

Yoga is a holistic practice that integrates physical postures, breath control, meditation, and ethical principles to promote overall well-being. Originating in ancient India, yoga has evolved into various styles and practices that cater to different needs and preferences. The physical aspect of yoga involves performing poses, known as asanas, which enhance flexibility, strength, and balance. Beyond the physical benefits, yoga is known for its ability to reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote emotional stability.

Here are seven yoga poses that can help calm an overactive mind and promote a sense of peace and relaxation suggested by yoga practitioner Kamakshi Khurana

Child's pose (Balasana): Child's Pose is a resting posture that helps calm the mind and relieve stress. Kneel on the floor with your big toes touching and knees spread apart. Sit back on your heels and stretch your arms forward, lowering your torso between your thighs. Rest your forehead on the mat and breathe deeply. This pose encourages introspection and can help soothe an overactive mind.

Legs up the wall (Viparita karani): Legs up the wall is a restorative pose that helps reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Sit close to a wall and lie back, extending your legs up against the wall. Your body should form an L-shape. Place your arms by your sides, palms facing up, and close your eyes. Focus on your breath, allowing it to become slow and steady. This inversion can help calm the nervous system and ease mental tension.

Cat-cow pose (Marjaryasana-bitilasana): Cat-cow pose is a gentle flow that connects breath with movement, helping to release physical and mental tension. Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. Inhale, arching your back and lifting your head and tailbone (Cow pose). Exhale, rounding your spine and tucking your chin to your chest (Cat pose). Repeat this flow, synchronising your breath with the movements, to create a calming rhythm.

Standing forward bend (Uttanasana): Standing Forward Bend is a soothing pose that helps relieve anxiety and calm the mind. Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Exhale as you bend forward from the hips, letting your head and arms hang down. You can bend your knees slightly to ease the stretch. Hold opposite elbows with your hands and gently sway side to side if it feels good. This pose encourages blood flow to the brain and helps quiet racing thoughts.

Bridge pose (Setu bandhasana): This pose is an effective backbend that opens the chest and helps reduce stress and fatigue. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart. Press your feet and arms into the mat as you lift your hips towards the ceiling. Interlace your fingers beneath your back and stay in the pose for a few breaths. This pose helps release tension in the back and can improve overall mood.

Seated forward bend (Paschimottanasana): Seated forward bend is a calming pose that helps stretch the body and soothe the mind. Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you. Inhale and lengthen your spine, then exhale as you fold forward from the hips, reaching for your feet or shins. Keep your spine long and focus on your breath. This pose promotes introspection and can help quiet mental chatter.

Corpse pose (Savasana): Corpse Pose is the ultimate relaxation pose that helps integrate the benefits of your yoga practice and bring a deep sense of peace. Lie flat on your back with your legs extended and arms resting by your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, allowing your body to completely relax. Stay in this pose for several minutes, letting go of any remaining tension or thoughts. Savasana is essential for calming the nervous system and providing a reset for both body and mind.