Effect of yoga on psychophysical health.pptx

Daily yoga and meditationpractice increased concentration, relaxation and peace of mind, helps to relieve symptoms of anxiety, stress and so on

1. Boosting Psychophysical Health Through Yoga, Meditation and Spirituality BY- DR VANDANA GAUR ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHOLOGY SDM GOV PG COLLEGE DOIWALA, DEHRADUNHH

2. What is Yoga? The Sanskrit word “Yoga” means union. According to Indian philosophy, yoga is the union of body, mind, and energy to enhance the physical, mental and spiritual well being of a person.  Yoga is the practice of physical exercise, breath control, relaxation, diet control, and positive thinking.  Yoga is also largely about mental fitness.

3. What is Meditation ? Meditation is more of a spiritual practice that trains the mind to be aware of. Meditation is more about exercising the mind rather than the body muscles . Meditation is more about training yourself to be aware of the surroundings and getting a new perspective on any issue without any judgments.

4. What is Spirituality? In Sanskrit, Spirituality is known as  Adhyātma .   It is derived from two words Adhi and Atman. Adhi means above or over and  Ātmā  means the Soul. The Soul is unaffected by the ups and downs (and the happiness and unhappiness) one experiences in life as it is perpetually in a blissful state.

5. Interconnection between Yoga , Meditation and Spirituality Both yoga practice and spirituality are associated with beneficial mental health outcomes . Yoga is not just about contorting the body into various shapes and holding poses for extended periods of time. At its core, yoga is a holistic practice that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being . When yoga and meditation are practiced together, it strengthens the connection between the mind and the body which improves the overall fitness and wellbeing of the body. 

6. Meditation and Psychophysical health Meditation as an alternative mind-body therapy. It is a popular intervention to improve mental and physical health. Psychologists have found that meditation changes our brain and biology in positive ways, improving mental and physical health

7. Continued… With meditation, the physiology undergoes a change, and every cell in the body is filled with more prana (energy). Lowers high blood pressure Reducing anxiety attacks Decreases any tension-related pain, such as tension headaches, ulcers, insomnia, muscle, and joint problems Increases serotonin production that improves mood and behavior Improves the immune system Improves sleep

8. Spirituality and Psychophysical Health Sense of meaning and purpose Emotional well-being Stress reduction Improved relationship Physical health benefits Pain management Quality of life

9. How Yoga and Meditation Positively Impact the Brain and Body Research on  yoga and meditation  has further explored the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Studies show that the mindful movement and breathing done in yoga  activates the relaxation response  (rest-and-digest system), via the vagus nerve. Furthermore,  yoga  increases levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps relax the mind.

10. The Science Behind Yoga and Meditation Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated the profound impact of yoga and meditation on mental health. These ancient practices activate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress hormones and inducing a state of relaxation. Consistent practice has been shown to increase gray matter in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, brain regions associated with emotional regulation, focus, and decision-making

11. In summary, yoga, meditation, and spirituality are integral to the Indian knowledge system, offering a path to physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual fulfillment. They collectively contribute to a balanced and harmonious way of living, deeply rooted in the cultural and philosophical traditions of India.

12. Mind and Body The mind and the body are not two separate entities. Physical health and emotional health are intimately intertwined in what’s known as the mind-body connection. Our chemistry and biology impact our mood and emotions, as well as thoughts and beliefs. With all of these factors combined, they play a major role in influencing our stress and physical health.

13. The Biochemistry of the Mind-Body Connection Communication happens via chemical and physical messengers, such as hormones and neurotransmitters. While we still don’t understand everything about the mind-body connection, scientists are discovering some of the ways in which communication occurs.

14. Cognitive Behavior Therapy and the Mind-Body Connection As another example of the mind-body connection, neuroimaging research has shown that talk therapy—specifically  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy — can significantly alter the way the brain works . CBT focuses on teaching individuals how to identify and change thought patterns. The goal is to consciously activate positive thoughts and behaviors until these responses become more automatic.

15. A study  compared a  Cognitive Behavioral Therapy  (CBT) intervention to a CBT intervention with a yoga component. After two months, both groups reported reductions in the physical effects of anxiety and panic-related body sensations. However, the changes were more significant for those who did both CBT and yoga which gives weight to the connection between mind, body, and spirit. “By focusing on and controlling our breath, we can change how we think and feel. We can use the breath as a means of changing our emotional state and managing stress.”

16. Holistic Approach to Well-Being Yoga and meditation foster a holistic approach to mental health, addressing the interconnection between the mind, body, and spirit. This integrative practice promotes overall well-being by reducing stress, enhancing emotional regulation, and building resilience. By cultivating self-awareness and mindfulness, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, leading to greater self-acceptance and a more balanced, fulfilling life.

17. Practical Tips for Incorporating Yoga and Meditation Begin with just 5-10 minutes per day. Gradually increase the duration as you build a consistent habit. Start Small Find What Works for You Experiment with different styles of yoga and meditation to discover what resonates most with your personality and lifestyle. Create a Dedicated Space Designate a quiet, calming area in your home to practice. This can help you mentally transition into a mindful state. Integrate into Your Routine Identify times in your day when you can easily fit in a practice, such as first thing in the morning or during a lunch break.

18. Conclusion and Call to Action In conclusion, incorporating yoga and meditation into your daily routine can have a profound and transformative impact on your mental health and overall well-being. These ancient practices have been scientifically proven to reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional regulation, making them a powerful tool in the holistic approach to managing mental health issues.