Yoga for Busy People  
by: Vasanthi Bhat (vasanthi@vasanthayoga.com)

Yoga is one of the most ancient art forms, originating in India 5000 years ago, It is the tradition of spiritual, mental, and physical teaching that helps to rejuvenate the spirit, awaken the mind, and nourish the body. Although it has taken several years for this priceless art form to be recognized worldwide, recently much attention has been given to yoga due to its benefits. Yoga can be practiced by anyone and is tailored to satisfy every individual´s needs.

Yoga is one of the most effective and wholesome form of exercise not only for the body but also for the relaxation of mind, especially for today´s busy people. Busy people generally try to accomplish too much in too little time, and consequently accumulate a lot of stress in their lives. There are several yoga techniques that can be used to alleviate the stress as well as rejuvenate the body.

Contrary to what many people believe, one does not have to practice an hour of yoga each day. Just taking ten to fifteen minutes out of one´s busy schedule can prove to be extremely helpful. There are several ways to utilize short breaks to do some easy yoga exercises, throughout the day.

Before going to work, do some slow, relaxed, natural breathing. It is important to pay attention to the breathing in order to attain better health. Increased awareness of one´s breathing leads to the peace of mind and purifies all the breathing channels. It also allows one to be more alert and relaxed in stressful situations. Several stretches including palm and feet, double angle, and triangle stretch can improve one´s blood and oxygen circulation. Having good circulation of blood and oxygen is extremely important because these are our life fluids. A good supply and circulation of both, revitalizes the body and allows one to be more focused and concentrate clearly.

During one´s break at work, some quick, but effective yoga exercises can be done. Neck movements and shoulder socket rotation relax the neck and upper back. These are some of the few techniques that can relax the muscles and release the tension accumulating from a difficult day at work. If possible, close your eyes and do some slow breathing because good breathing unites both the body and mind.

At the end of the day, a predominant factor that also contributes to tension is ´worrying´. It is very crucial to understand that worrying about the future does not produce a favorable outcome and in fact has a negative impact on one´s performance. It is important to focus on the present moment, utilizing it to plan the future and not to worry about it. Worrying causes a shortness of breath, and hyper tension, which are both harmful to one´s mind as well as body. It is, therefore, very important to practice some relaxation yoga techniques at the end of a busy day.

Yoga´s numerous benefits are obvious for those who practice it. It not only helps alleviate the stress one encounters during one´s busy day, but also revitalizes and nourishes the mind, body, and spirit over a prolonged period of time, enabling one to have a long and healthy life.