At every phase of an individual’s life, a fresh set of challenges and opportunities emerge. The key to maximising our potential and becoming the best version of ourselves, irrespective of the circumstances, is overcoming internal fears and nurturing courage. Courage is a choice, and it can be cultivated through yoga, according to experts.
Through consistent yoga and meditation over six months, Arjun Diwakar, an IT professional from Ahmedabad experienced improvement in decision-making, enhanced thought processes, and an overall positive transformation in his personality.
Surya namaskar to improve confidence
“After engaging in the regular practice of surya namaskar (sun salutation) and yoga for approximately six months, I have noticed a significant boost in my self-confidence,” says Diwakar. His yoga instructor recommended meditation to further enhance his self-assurance. He recalls that this elevated his confidence and contributed to his personal growth.
Yoga is an ancient practice that promotes overall health and teaches us to have a balanced approach to life, says Anu Anand, founder of Anuyog Yoga Studio in Mumbai. The yogic practice goes beyond merely improving external physical strength; it also acts as a catalyst for nurturing inner balance.
Meditation routine
Practising consistent mindful breathing, yoga poses, and meditation routines can help cultivate a state of mind that enables individuals to discern moments of confusion or navigate challenging situations in daily life more effectively. “Pranayama cultivates emotions of courage and confidence, and engaging in yoga enhances our proficiency in these qualities,” says Anand.
According to Anand, our heart rate influences or manages most of these emotions. Anger often leads to an increase in heart rate. Through the consistent practice of yoga and pranayama, we acquire the ability to regulate our breath, which in turn helps us to manage our emotional well-being. Surya namaskar and specific yoga poses like the warrior pose and tree pose can help improve self-confidence. Bhastrika pranayama (yogic breath of fire) is beneficial in releasing negative emotions and controlling fear. A 2015 study conducted by Pune University, Maharashtra, evaluated the benefits of surya namaskara on relaxation. It found that surya namaskara brings about physical and mental relaxation, muscle strength, awareness and reduces negative emotions.
Boost overall well-being
Experts say that practising yoga has the potential to enhance our feelings of happiness, consequently boosting overall well-being, courage and confidence. Additionally, yoga fosters courage by aiding in dispelling anxieties, indecisiveness, and emotional instability. Although yoga appears simple and safe, it requires professional guidance to learn, understand and adapt. After learning from experts, one can begin independently or through remote practice. Try out the yoga exercises below to balance your emotions and cultivate courage and confidence.
