MANAGING STRESS THROUGH PRANAYAMA AND RELAXATION TECHNIQUE

Abstract

This chapter looks at how pranayama and relaxation methods can be used to alleviate stress. Stress is the body's and mind's reaction to a challenging circumstance or pressure which can also be defined as a danger to homeostasis, and can have negative effects on both our minds and our bodies. To survive, our body must continually adjust to the changing internal as well as the external environment. Stress must be controlled for our bodies to continue operating as intended. The practice of yoga breathing, or practicing pranayama includes controlling our breath in order to reduce stress and improve our overall health. When we slow down our breathing rate during pranayama, the body's relaxation reaction is activated. There are several forms of Pranayama that have been shown to help with anxiety and depression, as well as with emotional stability, concentration, and even sleep quality. Apart from pranayama, additional relaxation techniques that have shown potential for management of stress these incoporate autogenic training, gradual relaxation of muscles and deep breathing techniques as well as guided imagery. These methods help people cope with stress by inducing the calming response that the body naturally produces. In addition to lowering blood pressure, this reaction also lowers heart rate and breathing and encourages mental and physical balance.