Exam time is nearing and students need to focus on their studies sincerely. Unfortunately in these days of smartphones and internet, students are seen getting distracted very easily. It results in loss of concentration as well as low performance in their studies. Simple yet effective yogic techniques can help them declutter their minds in order to stay sincere and committed, which will aid towards a better academic performance.
Indeed, Yoga quietens the mind and keeps distracting thoughts away. Sage Patanjali has defined Yoga as ‘yoga chitta vritti nirodha’, which means ‘cessation of mental fluctuations’. Asanas help clear unnecessary thoughts from our minds and improve concentration. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your mat and try out these tips.What
Garudasana
Why this Name
The name is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘garuda’ which means ‘eagle’ and ‘asana’, which means ‘pose’. This posture is commonly known as the ‘eagle pose’. In Indian mythology, garuda is the vehicle of Lord Vishnu as well as the frontrunner when fighting against demons. It is the king of all birds.
How to do it
- Stand in Tadasana.
- Inhale and bend your knees; lift your right leg up from the floor and cross your right thigh over the left.
- Wrap the right leg around and behind the left leg, and hook your right foot behind your left calf. Exhale deeply.
- On the next inhalation, bring your arms forward and parallel to the floor. Cross the left arm over the right arm and bend your elbows such that your arms are now perpendicular to the floor, with your fingertips pointing upward.
- Exhale and turn the hands so that the palms face each other. Gently press the hands together.
- Concentrate on an object in front of you and hold the position for 6-8 breaths.
- Exhale. Release your arms first, followed by your legs and come back to Tadasana.
- Repeat this pose on the other side.
Which Benefits
- Stretches the thighs, hips, upper back and shoulders.
- Improves balance, focus and concentration.
- Strengthens the calf muscles.
- Releases stress and anxiety.
What
Natarajasana
Why this Name
The name is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘nata’ which means ‘dance’, ‘raja’ – ‘king’ and ‘asana’ – ‘pose’. It is also known commonly as the ‘Lord of the Dance pose’. To add, Nataraja is one of the various names of Lord Shiva. If done correctly, this asana resembles one of his dancing postures.
How to do it
- Stand in Tadasana.
- Inhale and bend your right leg upwards and behind you.
- Grab your right ankle with the right hand. Exhale while settling into this backbend.
- Inhale and raise your left arm above the head.
- Exhale, bend from the waist and bring the left hand down in front of you, almost parallel to the floor. Simultaneously, raise the right thigh upwards and closer to the head with the hand firmly grabbing the right ankle.
- Concentrate on an object in front of you and hold the position for 6-8 breaths.
- Exhale and release your arms and legs and come back to Tadasana.
- Repeat this pose on the other side.
Which Benefits
- Stretches the groin, abdominal organs and thighs.
- Improves posture and balance.
- Helps with digestion.
- Relieves from stress and calms the mind.
- Increases metabolic rate and helps in weight loss.
- Strengthens chest, hips, legs and ankles.
- Improves focus and concentration.
What
Apart from these yoga asanas, the following lifestyle tips will help you to improve your ability to concentrate:
- Sleep well and get enough rest.
- Eat healthy food to avoid a restless mind.
- Practice pranayama every day to increase focus.
- Meditate daily to calm your mind.
- Plan your day and take periodic breaks so that you are recharged before every task.
Try out these yogasanas in order to improve your attention span and get ready for your exams. Happy studying!
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