How Are You Feeling Today?

Are you feeling sad or happy? Is there something you are looking forward to? Take a step back and assess the answers to these questions. Negative thoughts or a pessimistic attitude often stem from rejection, low self-esteem, failures, wounded emotions, or ailments. Our brains tend to prattle on about unwanted things, and if left unchecked, they can spiral into a vicious cycle of negativity.
The Role of Yoga and Meditation
Researchers have proven that yoga and meditation help people battle unfair life situations and negative emotions. While these ancient practices may not cure everything, they significantly aid in gradual recovery. Whether you have never meditated or practised yoga, it might be time to try something different. Discover how yoga and meditation can help you deal with life and negative emotions.
1. Open Monitoring Meditation
Research by the University of Southampton showed that Open Monitoring Meditation, or Mindfulness Meditation, helps quell negative thoughts and obsessive behaviour patterns. The study involved 77 participants who practised deep breathing exercises and redirected their attention inward to notice their thoughts and emotions. With continued practice, they learned to manage sudden emotional outbursts, gain new perspectives, and make room for better analysis. Participants reported successfully addressing their personal experiences with an open mind.

2. Progressive Muscle Relaxation
The same research by the University of Southampton also tested Progressive Muscle Relaxation techniques. A subset of participants shared their deepest fears while observing their heartbeats, current state of mind, and mood swings. Deep meditation sessions and counselling revealed that deep-seated fears and shadow thoughts caused significant muscle strain. This helped devise meditation techniques and yoga poses to alleviate unnecessary stress. Continued practice helped most participants manage intrusive thoughts more effectively.
Also Read: Shashankasana (Hare Pose) – Top 7 Incredible Health Benefits
3. Amygdala Functionality
A breakthrough study by Harvard in 2010 found that stress and negative thoughts wreak havoc on the amygdala, an almond-shaped group of nuclei in the brain’s temporal lobes. The amygdala is associated with emotions like fear, anxiety, and mood swings. The study used MRI to investigate the correlation between human stress response systems and amygdala gray matter density. Introducing yoga and meditation as stress intervention techniques yielded amazing results. Continued practice reduced the amygdala’s volume and enlarged areas of the brain associated with positive mood changes and arousal.
4. Meta Awareness
Research by Harvard Medical School linked yoga, especially Raja Yoga and Hatha Yoga, with improved psychological health. Daily yoga practice positively affects cognitive and emotional systems. Participants showed improved behavioural patterns and increased meta-awareness, allowing them to control anger and stress responses. This level of awareness helps control impulsive behaviour and reflect on the past for a better future while staying focused on the present.
5. Positive Reappraisal
Kripalu Yoga, a prominent style, incorporates a technique called “riding the wave” to implement conscious behavioural changes and increase tolerance. Stress and despair cause muscle groups to contract and ache. Yoga and deep meditation reframe this discomfort as a temporary sensation, improving physical responses to stress and safeguarding cognitive resources. Yoga and mindfulness enhance compassion, decision-making clarity, and emotional awareness. This meditative practice helps develop qualities for better stress management and impulse control, leading to clarity and a positive mindset.
Conclusion
Yoga and meditation offer profound benefits for managing negative emotions and stress. By incorporating these ancient practices into your daily routine, you can gain control over your thoughts, improve emotional awareness, and foster a positive mindset. Whether you are interested in deepening your practice or becoming a certified teacher, consider enrolling in a 200-hour Yoga teacher training in India, a 300-hour Yoga teacher training in India, or a 500-hour Yoga teacher training in India. Additionally, explore the rejuvenating benefits of an Ayurveda Retreat in India or a Yoga Retreat in India to further enhance your well-being. Visit Rishikul Yogshala to learn more about these transformative experiences.