Stress is not in our environment, it is what we perceive in our mind and attitude. So it is best to tackle stress with Yoga

Today the most common word used to express one’s condition is ‘stress’. I wonder if we really understand what is the real meaning and are we using the word correctly to state the condition of our mind? To understand its meaning and how to deal with it, we arranged a health seminar on ‘Women Wellness’ for our members in Dubai. The main speaker was Dr Vishwas Chabra, Yoga therapist, Prime Health Group, Deira.

Dr Vishwas addressed the ladies and stated that it is very important for one to understand the true meaning of the word ‘stress’ and it can be managed through Yoga very effectively. In great detail he explained its causes and the different types of stress found in people. For the benefit of those members who could not attend this session some of the salient points discussed are being listed below:

What is stress? Stress is a reaction people have to excessive pressures or demands placed upon them. It can be also described as the wear and tear experienced by the body and mind.

What are the causes of stress? There can be innumerable stress factors because different individuals react differently to the same stressful conditions. Extreme stressful situations for one individual may prove to be mild for another, yet for another might not be stressful at all. The stress we have in our lives can always be attributed to something, even if it’s hard to figure out. Sometimes life’s important events cause stress, other times its just daily hassles.

What are different types of ‘Stressors’? Stressors can be divided mainly into two categories (1) short term stress — ‘acute’ and (2) long term — ‘chronic’. Acute stressors are situations like hunger, noise, isolation, crowding, etc.

Chronic stressors are the ongoing stressful conditions like work pressure, long term relationship problem, persistent financial worries etc.

What is the effect of stress? Stress has a way of creeping into our lives. Sometimes without our even realising it. Some of the symptoms are minor, while others are more serious and even hazardous to our health. Its effects can be psychological or physical or both.

The most common psychological symptoms are anxiety and depression, while the most common physical symptoms seen are hypertension, impaired heart function, obesity; gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, diabetes; migraine, sleep disorder; menstrual disorder; hormonal imbalance and lack of concentration and memory.

What is Yoga and why is it essential? Yoga is a broad term for a series of practices that were developed over several millennia to bring practitioners into a state of wholeness and completeness. Yoga has been derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Yug’ which essentially means to join, unite or integrate. It is a practical aid, not a religion, as thought by some. It’s an ancient practice based on a harmonious system of development for the body, mind and spirit. All conventional treatments are provisional, limited and have some side effects. Yoga helps in developing discipline, patience, and contentment to strengthen the body and mind with no side effects. This is the main reason why Yoga is becoming more and more popular in this stressful world full of competition.

How can Yoga Help us? Yoga consists of concentration techniques, breathing exercises, dietary guidelines and a series of stationary or moving postures called ‘Asanas’. Yoga postures balance the different systems of the body, including the central nervous system, the endocrine (glandular) system, and the digestive system by slowing down mental activity and by gently stretching the body and massaging the internal organs. Yoga creates a climate of dynamic peace within.

This relaxing and rejuvenating experience momentarily removes us from involvement with the stresses in our lives — our ‘to-do’ lists, unresolved issues from the past or worries of the future. By practising Yoga on a regular basis we build up a natural response to stress and bring the relaxed state more into our daily life. The health benefits of Yoga are tremendous. Feeling better physically counters the effects of stress. Dr Vishwas ended by saying that ‘Stress is not in our environment, it is what we perceive in our mind and attitude’ so it is best to tackle stress with Yoga.

Then he went on to show some of the instant easy techniques to de-stress and relax. He also demonstrated and explained what are the correct postures to maintain while sitting or standing.

All the ladies present enjoyed the short session of Yoga exercises and due to shortage of time we had to wind up with a promise to our members to hold a second session soon. We take this opportunity to thank Dr Vishwas for the very informative session on Yoga and its benefits. The other speakers of the afternoon were Malini Ohri, Beauty Specialist, Splendor Beauty Centre, Dr Manju Lodha, Gynaecologist, Prime Medical Centre, Deira.

 While Malini spoke on how to care for yourself and gave a few beauty tips, Dr Manju spoke on cervical cancer prevention.

Due to the importance of creating an awareness of this disease and the effects it has in a woman’s life, we would be carrying an article on this topic separately.

Ways to reduce stress

Lead a healthy lifestyle — maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly

Biofeedback and behavioural therapy are helpful

Learn relaxation techniques, have a massage, listen or play music

Yoga is also helpful and effective

Principles of Yoga

Proper exercise (Asanas)

Proper breathing (Pranayama)

Proper relaxation (Savasana)

Proper diet (Vegetarian)

Meditation (Dhyana)

Physical benefits of Yoga

*Improves flexibility and joint mobility

*Strengthens and tones muscles

*Increases vitality and improves brain functions

*Relieves back pain

*Increases stamina

*Improves digestion and excretion

*Decreases cholesterol and blood sugar levels

*Increases blood circulation

Psychological benefits of Yoga

*Increase in self-awareness

*Relief from chronic stress

*Relief from muscle strains

*Relaxation of the mind and body

*Improvement in concentration and creativity

*Boosting of immune response

*Development of emotional intelligence