Conquer fear with Yoga

Fear is a human emotion whose main function is to act as a signal of danger, threat or conflict and trigger appropriate responses in the body. The response is either to defend or escape the confrontation. Fear is the root cause of anxiety, phobias, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and some forms of depression. A physical and mental make over is essential to address your fears. Yoga understands fear and helps increase awareness, mindfulness and cultivate an attitude that can help conquer your fears.

Fear and memory

Fear triggers an immediate chemical response in the body. Cortisol levels raise leading to an increase in blood sugar levels and triglycerides which can be used by the body as fuel in threatening situations. In today’s world, fear or threat is mostly psychological. Hence body cannot utilize this emergency state which is intended to counter physical dangers. When the body continues to function in such a state for prolonged periods, it is headed toward diseases and disorders. Fear keeps the muscles highly contracted. This leads to aches and pains in the body. It also affects sleep and food intake. Fitness plays a huge role in breaking muscle memory and restoring the body to its natural and relaxed state.

Fear is closely associated with conscious and subconscious memory. Traumas, accidents, loss and disease from the past can generate immense fear in the body. The anticipation that such an incident may occur which can cause harm to you or your loved ones can lead to a fearful life.  Imagined fear depletes energy, lowers vitality, increases uneasiness and disharmony in life.

Fear belongs to the past or future. Mindfulness or being in the present can help cut fear at the root. Smile brings your awareness to the present. When you smile, you cannot think of what once was.  Thus you can easily overrule fear at that moment. Internal conflict, worry and indecisiveness also lead to constant fear.  Judgmental attitude comes from a feeling of insecurity which is driven by fear again. Developing an attitude of gratitude, acceptance and being aware of your present can eliminate fear.

Build a strong present

Taking good care of your-self by eating healthy, sleeping well and exercising regularly play a huge role in eliminating complexes and fears. Cleansing your body of toxins and your mind of pent up negativity is very important. The best way to achieve this is through yoga.

Yoga asanas (postures) and mudras (gestures) help build an attitude of strength and stability. This is achieved by strengthening the body, bringing clarity to the mind and channelizing the prana (life force) to enhance perception. What you perceive through your senses is the input to your body and brain which trigger appropriate responses. Understanding your breath and working on it through pranayama (breath regulation) can make a huge difference to your body, mind and emotions. Your smile and breath can connect your body, mind and the present together to conquer fear.