Breath.
Our breath is the foundation of our life. So it's not surprising, that physical and psychological processes are directly connected to it. For example, new studies show, that both tensiona- and relaxation of the muscles, as well as the number and type of thoughts we have, are related to the depth and rate of our breathing. Traditional Hatha Yoga, as nowadays rarely found in its original practice, parts from that knowledge. It places breathing at the center of the practice and uses specific breathing techniques (Pranayamas), which create a balance in the system and facilitate the harmonious functioning of body and psyche.
Yoga Asanas
The Yoga Poses of traditional Hatha Yoga serve, among other things, to strengthen the spine and thus to protect and maintain our central nervous system, that works as the most important communication system connecting the brain with the whole organism. Conscious physical movement combined with specific breathing tecniques activates the parasympathetic nervous system, stimulates the blood flow to the brain and therefore sets an ideal basis for deepening our Perception, Attention and Concentration. These in turn are the basis for both intellectual and physical performance, as well as for the possibility of inducing profound relaxation and creating well-being.
Attention and Concentration.
In the presence of negative feelings such as fear, uncertainty, stress, anger, sadness etc. strong signals are sent to our nervous system, that lead to a situation , where this feeling gets our full attention. Our mind then usually tries to play through possible scenarios and find solutions, but in the intent mostly just circles around the problem. We experience negative thought spirales accompanied by a feeling of helplessness or despair. In cognitive behavioral therapy, we work with the content of these spirales and try to dissolve or stop them. Yoga and mindfulness are an important support here, as we learn, that our attention can be directed by us. We can train to bring our attentio to less emotionally charged areas and thereby regain a sense of self-determination. Mindfulness exercises could also be described as active meditations.
Meditation
Holistic Approach.
An holistic approach aims to perceive the person as a whole. It promotes the integration of mind and body, recognizes the connections and tries to influence them positively. This gives us long-term, profound changes. As an outcome of this holistic process you will find a new body awareness, a sense of wholeness, strength and serenity, which allows and enhances the letting go of old and the acceptance of new perspectives, leads to self-confidence and lets you shape your life with motivation and confidence.
As a trained yoga teacher, I offer mindfulness exercises and yoga individually, as well as in groups.
These exercises can be used as a holistic system or as a supplement to psychological counseling or psychotherapy.
