The importance of mindfulness is something that the ancient sages had recognized ages ago. The methodologies to achieve this via dhyaan or meditation as well as with the help of yoga and pranayam were laid out thousands of years back. In the contemporary scenario yoga instructors as well as practitioners are rediscovering the importance of mindfulness via the yoga class experience. Many yoga classes in Mumbai now try to offer a holistic mind-body experience to enhance mindfulness.
What is mindfulness?
The human mind is inconstant. It skips from one to another subject like lightning. It skips from the present to the past and on to the future within the space of milliseconds. It is difficult for us to concentrate on and live in the present moment because there is so much else that occupies our minds. Mindfulness is a psychological process that brings our attention into the present; which concentrates our thoughts in the here and now.
In Hindu as well as Buddhist thought and philosophy, mindfulness leads the way into wisdom and helps us know more about ourselves. It is the first step towards freedom from suffering and the ultimate enlightenment. In the modern context, mindfulness helps us stop worrying; something that is known to contribute to psychological conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders.
This is why so many psychiatrists and counselors incorporate the practice of yoga and meditation into their therapy sessions aimed at reducing stress and enhancing wellbeing. Mindfulness training is thought to be useful for preventing mental conditions. Studies show it to be effective in overcoming addiction, weight management, helping children with special needs and in elderly care. Mindfulness is seen to improve athletic performance and may even help to ease the process of pregnancy and childbirth. It can also help in pain management and in improving quality of sleep. Mindfulness practices help us understand ourselves better.
How can you achieve mindfulness with yoga?
Your yoga class experience can be significantly enhanced by incorporating mindfulness practices into it. To begin with, try to cut out distractions such as disturbing noises, loud music, glaring lights and so on. Also clear out any physical clutter around you – I have seen that this can also be distracting. Your practice area should have you, your mat and props if any; nothing else. It’s definitely a good idea to switch off your phone and put it away out of sight, since our gadgets tend to be the most distracting things in our lives.
Give your full attention to your instructor and concentrate on performing all aasans correctly and precisely to the best of your ability. Remember, everyone has different body types and physical capabilities, so there is no reason to compare yourself, either favorably or unfavorably, with your yoga classmates. Resist the urge to look around to see what others are doing. Focus on your own yoga practice and pay attention to the details, the rhythm of your breath, the position of your limbs. Breathe deeply and steadily and listen to the sound of your breathing.
Slowly relinquish all thoughts of what you have to do later than day. Stop worrying about things that have gone wrong in the past and other things that could possibly go wrong in times to come. As you focus fully on the position of your limbs, your own breath and learn to think only about this precise moment – the here and now, you will find that you have better control over your thoughts and your mind. You will find that you are able to cut out extraneous thoughts and considerations. You will find yourself simply becoming more mindful!
Ask your yoga instructor for tips on how to become more mindful as you practice your yoga. You will find that you’re getting more physical and mental benefits from your yoga class as a result of this.