As the effects of the coronavirus continue to grow and create uncertainty in all areas of our lives, it is important to cope with the stress that we are all experiencing. From fears of job vulnerability to missing loved ones, the causes of our concern are substantial, with even a trip to the supermarket an anxiety-fueled nightmare.

It is apparent that we are in this for the long haul, it is more important than ever to find ways to cope with our heightened anxiety. Living with these constant anxieties can be both mentally and physically demanding, so protecting your long-term health is imperative. Yoga and meditation techniques can be really helpful for centering your emotions and making you feel more grounded.

As well as these benefits, practicing mindfulness can also boost your immune system and help you get a good night’s sleep.

CONNECT YOUR BREATH

Connecting your breath will really help you refocus and be calm. Practicing yoga can help you to release negative energy and take control of your body. Concentrating on inhaling and exhaling will help soothe the nervous system, by shifting from the fight or flight instinct (sympathetic nervous system) to rest (un-sympathetic nervous system).

A slow yoga flow with restorative poses will help you reconnect to your breathing. This will encourage your body to release anxiety and clear out toxins. Learning to do this will help you to cope with any anxiety and not get caught up in any of the negative stories in the media.

BE PRESENT

Often the problem can be thinking of what might be, rather than living in the moment. Yoga is a really good practice for re-grounding your thoughts and learning how to live in the present. By bringing yourself back to the present, you will find comfort in the positive uplifting things around you, which can often get lost in a time of anxiety.

Any form of meditation can help you do this by allowing you to reset your thinking and align your chakra, or energy centre, helping you to engage in the present. Being present can also help you understand the good you are already doing by staying at home and help you give thanks for all positive outcomes so far.

FOCUS YOUR ROUTINE WITH YOGA BREAKS

Meditation really helps to realign your routine and help you be more efficient and productive. Learning to take control of your mind and rid any negative clutter, will help you to understand the importance of your work and help you to filter out distractions.

It will also help you to learn discipline by giving yourself a break from work and help you to filter out distractions. Taking regular breaks from your work will also help to minimize stress and allow you to reconnect your energy before carrying on with the working day.

FIND PEACE IN NATURE

Practicing mindfulness doesn’t always mean rolling out a yoga mat and following a flow. Connection with the outdoors is a great form of meditation. As we are entitled to one hour of outdoor exercise per day, refocus your thoughts by taking in nature.

The fresh air will naturally calm the mind. Leaving your phone at home can maximise nature’s calming influence. Away from distractions, you can fully engage your mind and bring you back to the here and now.

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Words by Shannon Mountford

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