Relax your mind with Conditioning in Yoga
Today our mind is always distracted and it is so difficult to find inner peace. Whenever we start with any kind of activity, we never commit fully to it. One part of the brain is working on that particular activity, the other part is trying to figure out the tasks we have to do remainder of the day. In order to bring concentration or attentiveness towards any activity we need to bring our mind to be vigilant and focus. Conditioning is a unique technique often practiced for preparedness.
The art of preparing ourselves for the right experiences in the present is defined as: “the withdrawal of oneself from the outer as well as the inner world, to attain an emotional calm.”
This is a very desirable experience for one to be in, as it establishes the efficiency and quality of any activity that follows. When one is calm, composed and unified, one can work better. It is observed that one cannot acquire a balanced state of mind in a short period of time. Therefore, we must always condition our minds before we perform any practices for good results.
Conditioning prepares our mind for the practice of Asanas, Pranayamas and Kriyas. We can also practise conditioning independently to calm and steady the mind.
Let’s look how do we perform conditioning.
Starting position: Sukhasana
We need to sit in Sukhasana or any comfortable meditative posture and with our eyes closed. If you are unable to sit on the floor, you can sit on a firm chair with an erect back. Keep the body above the waist straight and the spine erect. Hands on the thighs or in any mudra.
Steps:
- Once you are in your starting posture, close the eyes and passively observe the breath for about 10 minutes. Concentrate on the breath.
- The mind may wander to other thoughts but gently bring it back to your breath.
- Once the mind is calm and composed, bring your focus on the getting prepared for the asanas and pranayamas you ought to perform.
Recommendation:
Practice conditioning daily in the morning and during the day, as and when required.
Maintain the mental state for as long as possible.
Limitations /Contraindications:
There are no limitations. Everyone can practise this technique. A peaceful mind grasps and benefits greatly.
Benefits:
- Brings clarity of thought.
- Brings a distracted mind to attentiveness.
- Reduces extraneous thoughts and stress.
- Boosts performance, focus and concentration