Namita Nayyar:
How can one by making use of props enhance one yoga practice & meditation? Share 3 examples.
Barsha Doley:
We can’t achieve anything alone. We all need help. And recognizing when we need help is a part of the yoga practice. That’s where props come in. Sitting on the ground is not mandatory. Not everyone is capable of doing so. Use a chair, bench, blocks, cushions whatever helps and is easily available.
The asana flows are only guidelines directing our bodies to move. It shouldn’t be a punishment. We shouldn’t hold any asana in pain. Especially when we are preparing ourselves for deeper mediation, it is so important to get rid of distractions that can arise due to discomfort in our posture. Prioritise being in a comfortable position.
Namita Nayyar:
Meditation is a big challenge in the modern world for women. 5 steps to achieve a peaceful state of mind.
Barsha Doley:
- Not all of us are capable of closing our eyes when awake. It can trigger memories and fear in some of us. The first step would be to listen to your body. Close your eyes only if you are comfortable in doing so.
- If sitting meditation is not for you, try a moving meditation like walking or jogging or an asana sequence flow. Also indulging in your favourite pastime can be mediative. Many people find mundane housework like cleaning and tidying quite mediative. Find joy in simple things.
- Begin with mindfulness if meditation is still difficult. Simply bring your awareness to your current
activity and observe your thoughts instead of trying to change them. - There are plenty of guided meditations and podcasts available online. Download a few and start your audio mediation journey.
- Start with 2 mins a day and then gradually increase the duration, day by day, week by week.
Namita Nayyar:
What kind of diet one needs to follow to balance the yogic body mind & soul?
Barsha Doley:
I believe in the “Mitahara” diet, literally meaning moderate eating. Food is food, there is no bad food.
- The only thing bad is the proportion, timing, and frequency of our eating habits.
- Watch out for substances you are allergic to, and avoid reheating multiple times. There is so much information available on the internet, educate yourself on food pairings to avoid chemical reactions.
- Even though it might sound pricey but buy organic and seasonal food as much as possible. Don’t choose something just because it is cheaper. Always pick the best for yourself.
- Complete your last meal of the day at least 2 hours before hitting bed.
