Abstract

A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF STRESS AND ITS MANAGEMENT THROUGH YOGA

*Dr. Neelam Sagwan, Dr. Sunil Kumar, Dr. Lahange Sandeep Madhukar and Dr. Naveen Kumar

Abstract

The term Stress was coined by Selye, which denotes increased psychological distress as a result of excessive nervous strain in life. Stress has been dubbed the ―health epidemic of the 21st century ―by the WHO. Stress can be managed through modern treatment modalities but it is a long term therapy along with various side effects. Through Yoga one can have control over stress as mentioned in Patanjali Yoga Darshan as ‘Chitta Vritti Nirodhah’ Yoga i.e. the restriction of the fluctuations of mind stuff. The word Nirodhah has been invariably translated as control of mind. The stress response is entirely appropriate in an acute condition such as a stage performance, competitive sport etc, where an increased level of performance can be appreciated. The physiological mechanisms effecting fright, fight and flight response declines to normal level. But in day to day life most of the common stressors we experience are not physical rather they are psychosocial in nature as in job insecurity, work stress, family issues etc. Yoga is all about harmonizing the body with the mind and breath through the means of various Pranayama (breathing techniques), Asana (Yoga postures). Yoga includes physical, mental & spiritual practices or disciplines that aim to transform body and mind. By encouraging the practice of Asana like Shavasana, Siddhasana etc. reduces the stress hormone cortisol and helps in lowering blood pressure and heart rate, improving digestion and boosting the immune system as well as easing symptoms of stress such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia.

Keywords: Stress, Yoga, Asana.