Mantras and Asanas To Support Your Mental Health
We are all human, and we all need a little yoga lift at times. Emma Hart presents three mantras and asanas to support your mental health
We are only human. We are humans who get caught up in the emotions and events of each day and act imperfectly. We are all also different, and mental health is certainly not a one-size-fits-all journey.
But that is one reason why yoga is one of the best practices for mental health — because your yoga journey is all about tapping into what makes you, you.
By that, we mean all the parts of you: the flaws and imperfections, and even the emotions, thoughts, or feelings you do not even fully realise or understand.
In fact, sometimes, what truly makes us angry or unhappy is that we question or judge ourselves for feeling a certain way and proceed to label our feelings or state of mind as good or bad.
Whether you feel sad, angry, or just plain confused about what you are feeling, or you know something feels off, yoga can support you.
The next time you feel blue or simply want to check in with your mental state, remember the following reminders. And if you can get on your mat, even better, because we’ve offered some simple poses and mantras to guide you through all of your tough stuff:
It is okay
Whatever you are feeling today is okay. It is okay if you’re feeling sad, angry, or jealous. It is okay if your behaviours reflect your state of mind. You are not wrong or a bad person for it. You are just learning to navigate this human mind and experience, the same as everyone else.
Pose: Camel Pose (Ustrasana)
Mantra: “I welcome my emotions. I open my heart up to their lessons. I open my heart up to myself.”
This, too, shall pass
Everything must come to an end. Whatever you are feeling today is meant to show you something about yourself. Think of your feelings as a tool and use them, rather than something that has power over you to keep you stuck.
Pose: Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana II)
Mantra: “My thoughts guide me, but I know that I can change and control them to steer me to a happier place that better serves me.”
You are supported
Help is always somewhere around the corner. If you need advice, seek it. If you need a hug, ask. If you need to cry, cry. Lie down on your yoga mat and allow it to support you until you feel lighter.
Pose: Child’s Pose (Balasana)
Mantra: “The earth is strong enough to support my heavy thoughts. No matter what happens today or tomorrow, I am supported.”
Emma Hart
In March 2020 I completed my Yoga Teacher Training in Goa, India, which was a profound month. I learnt an immense amount of knowledge from some incredible teachers guides, and it’s been an honour to pass on learnings since returning. I adore seeing my students flourish in their own unique practice. Other than teaching yoga, I love to spend my days designing yoga products for my independent company, Zen Bear.
