Yoga BLOG

Yoga challenges both body and mind. Anyone who thinks every asana consists of a gentle stretch will quickly be surprised: Even in a seemingly relaxed pose, muscles can vibrate and tendons can reach their limits. It is precisely at this point that a phenomenon familiar to almost every yogi often occurs: the discomfort after practice, when sore muscles set in. But why isn't it enough to simply give in and perform each exercise carefully? In fact, there is more effort behind these flowing movements than outsiders would suspect. The combination of tension, concentration, and the desire to reach deeper into the stretch quickly leads to muscular reactions that approach the intensity of strength training. The intensity of yoga practice Many practitioners initially underestimate how demanding certain poses can be, until their legs begin to tremble and their breathing becomes more intense. Especially during demanding flows or long holds, sweat accumulates on the mat. To keep your mat hygienic, it's worth taking a look at yoga mat care . But beyond cleaning, there's also the question of regenerative options: While yoga itself offers elements of relaxation, additional muscle treatment can be beneficial, especially after intensive practice. Those who rely on innovative methods may also discover modern tools like massage guns , which can provide a soothing recovery after strenuous sessions and loosen the muscles to prevent soreness. A yoga teacher with class outside in park Shavasana – more than deep relaxation What appears to be a purely restful pose on the outside conceals an underestimated complexity. When practiced correctly, the far-reaching effects of Shavasana can clear the mind and reduce physical tension. But this deep letting go is only possible when you gradually learn to consciously relax muscles and regulate your breathing rhythm. Often, however, yogis still feel lingering strains in their thighs or shoulders, even when they are seemingly lying motionless on the floor. This is precisely where it becomes clear that giving in alone is sometimes not enough. Those who open themselves up to the subtle sensations in every fiber of their being will discover that true relaxation requires both concentration and dedication. This final rest period completes the practice and offers profound regeneration. Why the final pose is so misunderstood Many beginners assume that in Shavasana, you simply lie there passively and do nothing. But this final relaxation is by no means a meaningless doze. In fact, it can be challenging to keep your mind at rest and to mindfully observe your physical state. Those who prefer an upright sitting posture may find it helpful. Even just sitting quietly on meditation cushions can sharpen your focus and relieve pressure on the lower back. In this way, you open up space for regeneration for both body and mind. The conscious posture serves as a bridge between complete relaxation and stable awareness – an aspect that many practitioners only begin to appreciate after several sessions. From mat to meditation cushion – your yoga setup at a glance Anyone who invests in their own practice will sooner or later face the question of the right equipment. Yogabox offers not only a wide variety of yoga mats, but also meditation benches, fascia massage rollers, and accessories for children. The products range from PVC and TPE to virgin wool, and some are made in Germany. Also noteworthy is the environmentally friendly shipping: Thanks to DHL GoGreen and GLS Klima Protect, deliveries are CO₂-neutral. Product category Special features Materials Additional benefits Yoga mats Different thicknesses and slip resistance PVC, TPE, natural rubber Made in Germany, environmentally friendly Meditation accessories Cushions, benches, ergonomic shapes cotton, virgin wool Promotes posture and mindfulness Fascia rolls Different degrees of hardness EVA foam, plastic Supports muscle regeneration Children's yoga items Colorful and child-friendly Soft materials For a playful introduction to yoga Services Advice by phone or WhatsApp – Personal support in selection Many practitioners also appreciate the one-month return period in case an item turns out not to be the right fit. Yoga teachers enjoy a 12% discount, making it much easier to acquire high-quality equipment. And those who enjoy seasonal shopping enjoy regular discounts or special offers that brighten up their everyday routine. Between technique and depth – yoga as a personal journey A key component of a successful yoga routine is personal advice, especially when it comes to selecting the right props. If you have questions about size, material properties, or special needs, a telephone hotline can provide valuable information – so you don't feel left alone if uncertainties arise. You can also contact customer service directly via WhatsApp and receive answers to your individual concerns. Especially in an age where digital transactions dominate, personal contacts are often a helpful addition. This ensures that each piece of equipment meets your exact requirements and will provide long-term enjoyment. After all, yoga is always a journey that requires self-diagnosis and mindfulness. When strength and devotion become one Finally, the interplay of dedication and stability illustrates the deeper essence of yoga practice. Anyone who believes that smooth stretches alone lead to success will quickly be disabused of this notion as soon as the body noticeably reacts. Rather, the alternation between dynamic asanas and conscious relaxation is the key to holistic development. Muscle soreness is then no longer viewed as a mere annoyance, but as a sign that one is working on one's limits and can venture into unimagined depths. At the same time, careful regeneration creates space for progress without overload. Every step on the mat is a dialogue with one's self. If one looks patiently at one's own development, it becomes clear: only when active muscle work and deep relaxation merge can yoga unfold its transformative power. A meaningful path that never ends.

For many people, a visit to the dentist is associated with fear and discomfort. In some cases, the fear is so great that those affected avoid going to the dentist for years. This significantly worsens their dental health, causes shame, and increases their inhibitions about future dental visits. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate the fear of going to the dentist. These include yoga and meditation, which train the mind and help you relax and cope with the dental treatment. Good dentists can specifically address anxious patients If a dentist is familiar with dental anxiety and even pronounced dental phobias, they can specifically address their patients' needs and structure the treatment process so that anxious patients are not overwhelmed. For example, dentists in Worms take their patients' fears very seriously in their practices and address their individual needs. Patients are given sufficient time to examine the practice closely and communicate to the dental team their specific fears and what they need to overcome them. Among other things, there is enough time for relaxation exercises if these are helpful and desired by the patient. Meditation exercises suitable for visiting the dentist Patients can use meditation to prepare for their dental visit in advance and specifically work on their associations with the treatment room and the dentist themselves. Meditation is possible directly in the office before and even during treatment. The following techniques are particularly suitable for this: ● Breathing meditation: The patient concentrates completely on his own breathing and controls it. ● Body scan: In this form of meditation, attention wanders through all parts of the body. ● Guided meditation: With the help of audio instructions, patients can be specifically guided to relax. • Visualizations: The patient imagines a peaceful place. This meditation is particularly effective if it has been practiced extensively at home beforehand. ● Mantra meditation: Calming sequences of words or sentences are continuously repeated in your mind or with audio accompaniment. Why yoga contributes to relaxation For yoga to make a significant contribution to a more relaxed dental visit, it doesn't have to be practiced in the dental office. Instead, it's primarily the regular yoga sessions beforehand that empower anxious patients. Through yoga, people learn to focus on what's important, to become more self-aware, and to control this perception. Former anxious patients who regularly practice yoga often report that yoga helps them see the world more clearly. This allows them to focus specifically on getting through the dental visit without putting themselves under unnecessary long and intense stress beforehand. How well do patients need to master yoga to benefit from it at the dentist? One of the great advantages of yoga is that it's not about performance. Anyone can practice yoga, regardless of previous experience or physical condition. Even very simple exercises can broaden one's horizons and provide impressive support for anxious patients. Regularly practiced yoga exercises strengthen self-confidence and promote the ability to control one's breathing and relax in a targeted manner. Patients can use these skills learned through yoga at the dentist even if they are far from being yoga experts.

Yoga for families – the benefits of practicing together Do you love yoga and want to continue practicing despite having children? Many mothers and fathers feel the same way. The good thing is that yoga is suitable for all ages, and you can involve your children from an early age. This way, everyone benefits from the effects of Buddhist asanas. Thanks to the specific postures, even children can bring more well-being into their own systems and become calmer, more relaxed, and more focused. This article explains what you should consider when practicing together and the associated benefits. Is yoga also good for children? More and more conscious parents are asking whether asanas can be beneficial for their own children. The answer, as already indicated in the introduction, is yes. The effect of Buddhist physical exercises is holistic. Thus, the postures affect the body, mind, and soul – and not just in adults. Does your child suffer from constant illnesses and rarely escape a virus? Then it's important to strengthen your child's immune system. Yoga can be a beneficial form of exercise to achieve a positive effect. If your child sits in school all day, it's recommended to compensate for this lack of movement. More dynamic flow exercises can be the solution. Muscle flexibility is increased and children can also become stronger overall. Kids are often very emotional (angry, sad, etc.), which is absolutely okay. At the same time, they can learn how to deal with emotions properly. Body postures can help bring movement into their system and get emotions flowing. If your child is constantly stressed or overwhelmed with their own school commitments, it is good to sit on a meditation cushion and listen to gentle meditation journeys or take a few soothing breaths. These benefits that come with regular practice speak in favor of incorporating it more often into everyday family life. Stressful family life: How can yoga be incorporated? Tight to-do lists, lots of homework, long school days, and the stressful workload of adults – such a family routine often feels chaotic with numerous responsibilities. It's precisely during these times that it's so important for the whole family to find peace and quiet through various practices. Do you and your family recognize this? Then it's important that you sit down together and (depending on the children's age) make a plan. Even younger children can and should have a say. For many traditional and modern families, the weekend is almost the only time they can do something together. This time can also be used for family yoga. Children benefit from rituals and routines. For example, you could start Saturday and Sunday with a yoga session. Children get used to it and, just like their parents, develop a sense of enjoyment and fun. Yoga can also be practiced regularly during the week. This depends entirely on your daily routine and all your schedule. A good idea might be to practice yoga for 5-15 minutes shortly before bedtime. This can be achieved even on stressful days. The rule here is: It is better to practice asanas for five minutes than to do nothing. It's also important that the children are introduced to it in a playful way and that it feels enjoyable. It shouldn't become an additional, annoying to-do for the family, but rather a relaxing experience. What should adults consider when planning parent-child yoga? First, it's important to consider the children's ages. Of course, a three-year-old won't enjoy holding a pose for as long as a nine-year-old. Therefore, adults should treat the child with care and love, even if they don't feel like it. It's important to openly communicate that the child can engage in other activities (e.g., painting, etc.) while the adults practice yoga. Secondly, the right tools must be provided. This is the only way to get things done. Therefore, it's advisable to have everything in one place, so that the excuse "it takes so long to set everything up" doesn't hold up. Mats , pillows, blankets, perhaps essential oils and a diffuser, as well as comfortable clothing, can be laid out. Gentle sounds during meditation can provide more relaxation for children and adults. The appointment can also be entered into the parents' shared calendar on their smartphones to ensure adherence. A general family calendar on paper with the yoga sessions entered can also help ensure adherence to the schedule. The yoga poses should, of course, be chosen so that children can participate. Parents demonstrate, and the children can practice along. There are now even YouTube channels that show children's yoga. This allows parents to practice these poses together with their children. Everything can be done playfully. Forget expectations and be happy when your child practices a little, even if they don't do all the exercises perfectly. Your daughter or son should have fun and enjoy the time spent together – because that's the most important aspect. Always make sure that your child feels comfortable and that his or her statements are taken seriously. At the end of the practice, a short meditation perfectly rounds off the session. There are wonderful audio stories to strengthen mindfulness. You can also use gentle sounds and close your eyes for half a minute or a little longer, breathing deeply in and out. Have you tried parent-child yoga before? If so, how was it for you?

The Role of Alignment in Yoga – An Overview The correct practice of asanas is essential for yoga to feel good and for the desired effect on body, mind, and soul. In this context, proper alignment is essential for achieving the best possible results. In this article, we'll explain what this means and how you can use it to your advantage. 1. Definition of alignment in yoga In general, alignment in yoga refers to the correct physical alignment of the various asanas. Various yoga props can be used to achieve this. For example, yoga blocks help ensure the correct execution of the posture. Cushions, straps, and other aids can also be helpful in performing certain exercises correctly. 2. The importance of alignment in yoga Those who practice on the mat for an extended period without a yoga instructor and do not perform the exercises correctly may experience problems. Therefore, it is important to educate yourself on this topic and how to practice correctly. Common problems include meniscus damage or impingement syndrome (the entrapment of muscles and tendons within a joint). This can lead to various spinal injuries, among other things. This includes, for example, straight lines in certain postures. There are no fixed structures, and equally, it's not about achieving the perfect, picture-perfect shape you see in photos. What's important is that your joints, muscles, and ligaments are protected. 3. How to apply alignment in your practice! There are various areas of the body where you can recognize alignment in yoga practice. Learn more in the following section: The pelvic floor is very helpful in determining alignment. This is where you can immediately identify imbalances in movement and work on them. Those who practice the upright standing pose (Tadasana) can recognize this there. The general rule is that you should perform the movements from the pelvic floor—even though many could be performed by other parts of the body. If you manage to do this correctly, you will avoid certain physical discomfort in other parts of the body. Generally speaking, if you remain in positions with an upright upper body, your pelvis should be upright. Doing this correctly protects your joints, muscles, and ligaments. In correctly performed yoga practice, the knees must also be evenly loaded. This is especially true in standing poses like Warrior Pose. The knee should not be bent beyond 90 degrees. To ensure this, the thighs must be bent slightly outward. In other standing poses, such as Extended Side Angle Pose (Parshvakonasana) or Horseman Pose (Ashva Sanchalana), the knee should not be placed more than vertically above the ankle. In this case, less is often more. In Chair Pose (Utkatasana), it is important for the joints that you do not bend the knees too far forward; instead, work with the pelvis (move it back). The position of the feet is particularly important during yoga practice, as it affects the entire body. In Tadasana (Mountain Pose), for example, they should be facing forward. The back and shoulders play a central role. For example, the shoulders should never be pulled toward the ears. During various asanas, the back must be lengthened, for example, in downward dog. When practicing backbends, the lumbar and cervical spine must not be bent. When performing forward bends, make sure to do so from the hips. In Alignment Yoga, the neck must always feel free; it must not be bent. 4. The effects of alignment on the body In alignment yoga, the goal is to avoid the consequences of incorrect asanas. Therefore, as a yoga beginner, it's advisable to enroll in a class where you'll experience this practice in detail. This way, you can be sure that you're doing something good for your entire system. Knowing these basics ensures that no long-lasting physical discomfort will develop. You'll also benefit from the best possible effects on your body: Your body will be stretched, strengthened, and revitalized – without pain in your joints, tendons, or ligaments. 5. The benefits of proper alignment If you want to truly enjoy your life and stay fit and vital, you should practice yoga daily. In this case, it's important to know the correct postures. Pain or other physical symptoms, for example, caused by incorrect postures, have a direct impact on your mental health. Therefore, the advantage of alignment also lies in its ability to sustainably strengthen your overall well-being. You'll go through your day energized and suffer no negative consequences from incorrect alignment. To best round off your yoga class, you can take a few deep breaths on the cushion and reflect. This is especially useful if you're new to the practice and don't yet know your body very well. This strengthens your access to your inner voice. Further advantages are: Harmony throughout the system Mindfulness and concentration are trained (through clear instructions) perception is improved Thanks to these different exercises you will learn that you are more than just your physical body Have you practiced this before? If so, what are your experiences with correctly performing the exercises?

Why is yoga connected to self-love? This world desperately needs more love – this primarily results from each person loving themselves and opening their hearts. This has nothing to do with selfishness or arrogance; true self-love nourishes relationships with other people and fills the things you do with love and mindfulness. That's why it's so important to love yourself. This article explains why self-love is so important and how you can integrate it more into your life. 1. What is self-love and why should you have more of it? Self-love encompasses a vast field that requires understanding. For example, it's directly related to body positivity, with self-love being the second most important aspect. Body positivity is about accepting your body. This can, of course, be made easier through yoga practice. Over time, you'll notice that certain yoga poses on the mat have an impact on your body, your strength, and your self-esteem. You'll become stronger and fitter, which automatically affects your posture. Self-love in general includes the following areas: Self-reflection (reflecting on one's own thoughts, emotions, patterns, etc.) Self-awareness (the awareness of who you are – for example, without all your material possessions, without your job, without your fear, etc.) Self-worth (the knowledge that you are infinitely valuable) Self-confidence (the unbridled trust in yourself and that you can achieve anything you want; in Karma Yoga, for example, it is said that all your weaknesses are just right for solving your tasks; you can trust) Self-acceptance (understanding, accepting, and loving yourself as you are – without wanting to add to or remove anything; this is especially practiced in Raja Yoga) Charity (You love your fellow human beings, animals and nature – this is taught in Jnana Yoga) Why is self-love so important? First and foremost, it's about the fact that people with healthy self-love automatically treat themselves much better. When this is the case, it naturally has a positive effect on their inner feelings as well as on others. When you love yourself, you begin to view the planet and Mother Earth differently and live life much more mindfully. Furthermore, self-loving people don't need as many rules to behave appropriately. In addition, self-loving people feel better. They are more connected to themselves, their bodies, their thoughts, and their emotions. 2. How can yoga help you develop more self-love? In addition to meditation on a cushion , asanas from Buddhist teachings can be a key way to strengthen self-love. They are an ideal way to get to know yourself better—not just your body, but also your mind. Yoga practice is perfect for training and directing your mind and thoughts. The advantage is that – whether you're new to the field or a seasoned pro – yoga always picks up where you're at. Yogis are able to look at themselves, their own thought patterns, and blockages, and change them. The result is more self-love, acceptance, and appreciation of one's own self. Yoga can also help you become more accepting of your own body. Thanks to the dynamic flows, you can lose weight, increase strength, and stretch various parts of the body. Important : Yoga isn't just about the typical movements. Buddhist teachings are so much more. All the wisdom and scriptures passed down will help you completely reorient your life and achieve more love and awareness. To follow this path, you should read the Yoga Sutras (according to Patanjali; there are four chapters). Two important sutras are: Yoga helps you bring peace to your mind and that the perfect postures are both light and stable. Yoga Sutra also describes the eight-limbed path of Ashtanga Yoga: Yama (behavior in human relationships) Niyama (the inner attitude/attitude) Asana (the various body movements) Pranayama (breathing techniques) Pratyahara (the senses should be withdrawn inward) Dharana (focusing on the essentials) Dhyana (meditation) Samadhi (complete arrival/realization) 3. Practical tips for implementing yoga in your everyday life! In addition to this theoretical information, we would now like to give you a few tips for practical implementation in your everyday life. It's important that you set aside a few minutes each day to complete your practice. You should choose the right flows or postures that make a decisive difference in your life. Regularity is the real reason why so much can change. Set up a yoga corner where you can practice your daily exercises. It's best to leave your yoga mat there, so you don't have to prepare it—which could be a reason to postpone your practice session. Take enough time to immerse yourself in your yoga practice. Sometimes it takes a while to perform the poses correctly or to be able to hold them for a long time. This is your first test of whether you have already practiced self-love. Be loving and mindful of yourself and accept that you may not yet be able to perform certain poses as you might wish. With enough practice, you will learn that your body can adapt completely and your initial physical limits will expand. Find a friend to practice with daily. If that's not possible, look for a class where you can meet new people in person and learn all the exercises correctly. Use your breathing (deep breaths, in and out) to feel your body and perceive what is present at the moment. This will help you become more aware of your emotional world. 4. What are the most important asanas (yoga exercises) for a more loving relationship with yourself? There are many different postures that have different effects on your system. a) Fish pose with yoga block Here, you lie on your back and support your upper back with a yoga block. Your head is also placed on a yoga block. Relax in this heart-opening pose. b) Heart chakra opening with a modified child's pose To do this pose, get into a quadruped position, keeping your legs in this position while lowering your upper body forward toward the floor. Rest your elbows and forehead on a pillow and raise your forearms toward the sky. Breathe deeply. c) Heart opening while lying down For this pose, sit on your mat in a kneeling position with your legs pointing back (not cross-legged). Then, place a pillow on the mat and rest your upper body (on your back) and head on it. Rest your legs on the mat with the soles of your feet pointing toward your upper body—not extended. Breathe deeply. 5. How to recognize and manage emotions to love yourself better To practice self-love, it's important that you're aware of your emotions and feelings. This means that over time, you'll be able to assess more accurately why the sadness, anger, or joy are present at a particular moment. Emotions aren't called that for nothing – the word is derived from e-motion, which means "feelings in motion." So, when you feel sadness, anger, or rage, you can localize it in your body and let it flow through your entire system with your breath. After a few seconds or minutes, the emotion will have passed through your system, and you can return to your daily routine. When you allow yourself to feel all your feelings, you will find that you can accept yourself much better. Do you already love yourself? What experiences have you had with yoga practice?

The benefits of practicing yoga in a group or with a partner Those who practice yoga want to get the most out of it. The physical exercises don't necessarily have to be performed alone. There are numerous options where the asanas are practiced in pairs or in groups. In this article, you'll learn about the positive effects you can reap in this setting. 1. Why practice yoga in groups or partnerships? First of all, we'd like to explain what yoga in partnership or in a group is all about. This form of yoga involves practicing various yoga postures with your partner or a larger group, such as your friends, family, or acquaintances. As you probably know, yoga strengthens holistic health. Body, mind, and soul are brought into harmony, and you and all the other participating yogis benefit from profound harmony within your own body system. Those who want to strengthen the bond between several people or within a partnership can choose shared activities. These include meetings in restaurants, bars, in nature, or on the mat at home or in a studio. 2. Benefits for health and well-being Movement is good for the entire system, and you'll benefit even more if you practice with others. It doesn't matter whether you do the exercises in pairs, five, or six—the atmosphere you create is something you'll hardly be able to achieve alone. On the other hand, you can also have wonderful experiences with yoga alone: This is especially true if you want to sink deep into yourself and invite peace into your body, mind, and soul. In the following section, we explain the positive effects of practicing yoga together: a. Physical benefits of group yoga classes The different types of yoga have various effects on physical health – including partner or group yoga. First and foremost, it's about continually pushing your own physical limits. For many people, this is much easier when practicing together. Motivation and encouragement are usually higher in a group setting. Otherwise, regular practice has the following effects on the body: Strengthening tendons and ligaments The muscles are stretched and mobilized Pain can be reduced by practicing the right yoga exercises The limits of one’s own body are expanded The awareness of one’s own body increases and the inner body voice becomes louder – this can improve well-being Of course, the physical effects depend on the style of yoga. For example, practicing Kundalini Yoga strengthens the energy distribution within your body, unlike Yin Yoga, where you primarily achieve flexibility in the various muscle groups. Hatha Yoga is another type of yoga that can be practiced in pairs or with several yogis. b. Mental and emotional benefits of partner or group yoga In addition to the physical effects mentioned above, regular yoga practice will bring you many other positive effects – you will see that the relationship between you and your partner, your friends, your family, or your acquaintances changes. The following advantages can be experienced: Trust builds. If, for example, your relationship isn't working well or there's a lack of trust, practicing yoga together can be a great way to strengthen that trust. You learn to communicate your needs and express your boundaries. This has a direct impact on your interpersonal relationships in everyday life—whether with your partner, friends, or acquaintances. You can perceive your needs more sensitively and at the same time have more understanding for the needs of others. The interpersonal relationship can be deepened and a whole new level can be reached. Of course, through regular yoga, you get to know your partner on a deeper, more emotional level. Shared activities such as yoga, meditation or other activities strengthen cohesion. Those who meditate together on the cushion experience a deeper connection. Who can practice partner yoga? Theoretically, there are no restrictions. Anyone interested can practice this type of yoga. Age and fitness levels are also not exclusion criteria. In principle, almost any style of yoga can be practiced in pairs. However, fascia yoga, for example, is not suitable for this. It's important that both yogis have a similar fitness level, so they can perform the same flows. Otherwise, they can, of course, adapt and find common exercises. Those with children can include them. Important: Yoga is never about performance, but about joy, depth, strength and willpower. If you are unsure, a class in the studio could help you overcome your initial fears and enjoy professional guidance through various exercises in pairs or with others. What else should be considered? If you want to practice partner yoga, you should set a fixed time each day to practice. This ensures you don't forget. If you don't have time every day, you can of course practice it just two or three times a week. The place where yoga is practiced should be comfortable and offer sufficient space. Water, tea, comfortable clothing, a sturdy yoga mat, a cushion, and other props may be provided. The yoga sequence should conclude with a shared meditation, sitting close to your partner. Deep breathing can also be helpful to sink even deeper into calm. Which exercises are suitable for beginners? There are many asanas that can be practiced in pairs or with others. We'll show you two particularly great ones that you can incorporate right away. a) the tree Here, you stand next to your partner, hip to hip. Then, hug your partner with your inner arm. At the same time, lift your outer leg and try to maintain balance. b) Seated forward bend (straddle) For this exercise, sit on the floor and spread your legs. Once both of you have done this, you can touch your heels. Now try to lower your upper body as far as possible. Have you ever practiced yoga with a partner? If so, what was the experience like for you?

The connection between yoga, meditation and self-acceptance Yoga influences harmony on a physical, mental, and spiritual level. This means that the asanas from Buddhist teachings can also have valuable effects on one's self-image and self-acceptance. Have you ever noticed that you feel significantly better after practicing yoga? If not, you can give it a try. This article explains the best connections and what you need to know. 1. Introduction to the connection between yoga, meditation and self-acceptance Yoga practice and meditation are methods for discovering yourself and getting to know yourself on a level that is otherwise not so easily accessible. Especially if you find yourself in a stressful, superficial everyday life in which you rarely engage with psychology, spirituality, or your own self. For this reason, yoga and meditation are equally wonderful ways to strengthen self-acceptance. This is achieved by using these techniques to get to know all aspects of yourself—your shadows and your beautiful sides. Only those who are aware of all aspects of themselves can accept themselves. 2. How yoga and meditation can help improve your self-image! Many yogis who practice yoga regularly report a fairly rapid change in their self-image. A study published in the journal "Sex Roles" found that participants perceived their bodies more positively. Therefore, you can assume that regular practice will have great effects on your self-image. There are several reasons for this: Thanks to yoga, you learn to consciously control your feelings about yourself. Even if you don't like certain parts of your body, you no longer focus on them, but instead accept yourself as you are. In general, yogis no longer focus so much on appearance, as other values are more important in this world. Those who practice yoga regularly influence and transform their bodies. This can contribute to a general sense of well-being and, as a result, change your self-image. Of course, meditation practice on a cushion also plays a significant role in this context. If you regularly incorporate this spiritual practice into your daily life, certain synaptic connections in the brain will change, so that you generally feel fitter, more aware, more comfortable, and more confident. All of these qualities have a direct impact on your self-image. It is advisable to practice meditations that focus on the "I am." Here, you simply focus on your being—regardless of what you look like, what you have, or what you don't have. 3. The psychological significance of yoga and meditation for greater self-acceptance Hatha Yoga is a very popular and widespread form of yoga. Many yogis benefit from various effects on body, mind, and soul. Hatha Yoga is also perfect for self-acceptance. Anyone who has ever studied the human psyche knows how complex it is. Synapses connect in various ways, which directly affects thoughts, self-image, self-love, and acceptance. Even if these patterns seem rigid at first, they are not – with regular practice, you can change a great deal. If you practice asanas on the mat daily, you strengthen your body connection and thus trigger changes in your brain connections. Furthermore, with the help of yoga and meditation, certain shadow aspects can be examined and brought from the subconscious into consciousness; it also reduces unfavorable overestimations of yourself. This allows you to work with them and, if necessary, seek therapeutic help. These two practices from Buddhist teachings help us experience, integrate, and sustainably utilize our inner strength. Thus, they can be used at any time as a supportive measure in certain therapies to increase self-acceptance and love, thus achieving the best possible therapeutic success. 4. A practical guide to starting to connect with your inner self If you want to connect with your inner self, this can initially be a major hurdle. Because we've been shaped to believe that everything happens externally, we lose touch with our inner self. These points can help you connect effectively with your inner self: Deep breathing helps you arrive in the here and now, feel inner calm, and perceive inner peace. To invite even more relaxation, it's worth breathing deeply for at least five minutes. After taking a deep breath, sense your body and feel what is present. The following questions can help you: How am I feeling right now? Where do I feel pressure? Where do I feel spaciousness? Where do I feel tightness? Do I feel other sensations in my body? At first, it can be a bit overwhelming to simply connect with your own feelings in your body. Over time, it will become more normal and easier. With the help of meditation, you can consciously connect with your inner self and your spirit. Deep breathing brings you into the moment, and now you can set the intention, "I connect with my inner self." Once you've done that, feel clean. What do you feel? Loving-kindness meditation can support you in being even more loving to yourself and others. It strengthens your connection and your self-image. Here, you wish yourself, a loved one, a neutral person, and an enemy, "May I be safe, May I be healthy, May I be happy, May I live with ease." The wording then adapts depending on the recipient. You go through it person by person. Then you can ask conscious questions like "Who am I really?", "What are my true strengths?", "What is my purpose?", "What are my own abilities that make me special?" "What triggers feelings of happiness in me?" If you find it difficult to consciously connect with your inner self and arrive in the present moment in this world, it is advisable to practice a few yoga poses or another form of exercise beforehand. Kundalini Yoga is great for bringing the energy trapped in the lower chakras upwards. A beautiful mantra, essential oils on the skin, incense sticks, or ceremonial cacao can also help you strengthen your connection to yourself, your well-being, positive emotions, and your sense of happiness in daily life. You can also find a wealth of information in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. 5. How to learn to value yourself and become more confident! The most important commandment in this life is, among other things, to show yourself the love you give to a baby, your parents, your partner, or your siblings. The love we feel for ourselves is often very limited due to various belief patterns. These try to convince us that we are not good as we are. This is, of course, wrong, and that's exactly where we start – a positive self-image is the goal. To appreciate yourself more, the first step is to realize how amazing you are. You can find this out by starting to keep a journal. Every day, write down at least five things you love/appreciate about yourself. Talk to other people and ask them what they like about you. Consciously enjoy the things you do well and practice gentleness when something doesn't work out right away. Do what you love – this will automatically make you more confident. You can strengthen your body awareness through daily asanas. Practice mindfulness and take time several times a day to feel your body and notice your thoughts. If you experience negative thoughts, try to replace them with positive ones. 6. Conclusion: Why yoga and meditation are key to increasing self-acceptance Physical exercise and meditation primarily help you keep the ego and negative thoughts swirling around in your head at bay. A feeling of happiness, increased physical well-being, and greater connection to yourself will automatically occur more frequently. Furthermore, these practices are ideal for learning to love yourself more, overcoming disruptive thought patterns, and establishing positive thinking. Has yoga helped you on your path to greater self-acceptance? If so, what exactly did you do?

These are the most popular yoga exercises If you've been trying out different types of yoga for a while, you've probably already found one that appeals to you the most. Perhaps you already know your favorite asanas. If this isn't the case, because you've only recently started or your understanding of the different yoga postures is still very limited, you can use the information in this article to your advantage. Get to know various popular yoga poses that can positively support you in your everyday life. Important: Clarify your symptoms before your first yoga session If you're physically healthy, you can start right away. However, if you have any physical limitations, be sure to have this checked out by your trusted doctor or a naturopath of your choice. What you should consider as a beginner before practicing! Once everything's clear, you can slowly start practicing. It's advisable to join a yoga group in your city. There, the yoga instructor can give precise instructions on how to perform each asana. If you're already experienced or have access to valuable online content, this may be enough to get you started with yoga. Here, you should make sure that the individual exercises are well explained and that you're confident in performing them. No matter which yoga class you attend, always be aware of your own limits. The goal is for you to be able to fully perceive your body and feel what you need at that moment. Deep breathing is also essential for achieving a relaxing effect on your body and mind. The yoga session can be concluded with a meditation or with guidance for a specific breathing exercise on your pillow . This way, you can benefit from the holistic effect. When choosing your clothing, it's advisable to opt for comfortable fabrics. Fabrics should sit comfortably against the skin, and tight waistbands should be avoided. The best yoga exercises for body, mind and soul To get a good insight into the most important yoga postures, you can practice the following poses and integrate them into your practice on the mat . a) Chair Pose (Utkatasana) For this pose, stand on your mat with your feet hip-width apart and slowly squat down. You'll definitely feel the tension in your thighs. This is exactly right. This exercise works your thighs and glutes. Your core muscles and calves are also targeted. b) Mountain Pose (Tadasana) If you'd like to try another standing pose, Mountain Pose is recommended. This can strengthen your legs and increase your stability. When performing this pose, make sure your feet are firmly planted on the mat, with your big toes touching. Turn your thighs slightly inward, and point your knees forward. Let your arms hang loosely at your sides. Push your chest forward, and stay in this position for one minute. If you feel like it, you can stay longer. c) Upward Facing Dog (Urdhva Mukha Shvanasana) This pose is part of the Sun Salutation or many advanced Vinyasa flows. For this pose, lie on your mat, belly down, legs extended behind you. Then raise your upper body, palms down, arms straight, and legs slightly off the floor. This means that only the palms of your hands and the backs of your feet are resting on the mat. You can tilt your head back. Stay in this pose for a few breaths and observe how you feel. This exercise is good for your back and spinal mobility. It also opens your heart and chest. If these physical exercises are too difficult for you, try Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana). Here, you assume a similar position. Lie on your stomach, place your arms in front of you, press through them, and slowly raise your torso (using the strength of your back). Your knees (and legs) remain completely on the mat. This exercise strengthens your back and opens your heart. You can tilt your head back—be careful not to overextend it. d) Child's Pose (Balasana) This is a position ideal for relaxing during a busy day or an intense yoga session. You squat and then place your upper body flat on the mat. Your arms pointing backward or forward. The advantage of this asana is that you can completely relax in it. It stretches your thighs and ankles, reduces tension in your back, and mobilizes your hip joints. e) Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana) To complete your yoga practice, downward dog is a must. It is practiced in the Sun Salutation along with upward dog. This will train your thighs and shoulders, and mobilize your back. Get into a quadruped position on your mat and then raise your pelvis backward. Straighten your legs (as far as you can) and your arms as well. Keep your back straight, and the soles of your feet rest on the floor. Stay in this pose for a few breaths, breathing in and out deeply. f) Cat (Bidalasana) and Cow (Bitilasana) Another popular exercise is the cat-cow pose. Here, you stand back on your mat with your feet hip-width apart and your hands shoulder-width apart. As you inhale, assume cow pose, which means your chest is directed forward and your back is more sagging (a hollow back). As you exhale, assume cat pose. Your back is arched upward, and you form the familiar "cat's back." With this pose you mobilize your spine and strengthen your abdomen, chest and shoulders. Other great exercises are: Warriors I, II and III Tree triangle swivel seat Seated forward bend (straight and lateral) What is your favorite exercise and how long have you been doing yoga?

Imagine being able to press a button and all the stresses of the day would melt away. In our hectic daily lives, we often seek ways to find this kind of relaxation. Yoga offers us a way to calm our body and mind, and when it comes to additional support, one particular natural product comes into focus: CBD, derived from the hemp plant, which has a wide range of uses to promote well-being. But how do you find the right dosage? This is where the CBD dosage calculator comes in, a useful tool that can help you determine the right amount for you to achieve the desired effects without risking overdose. Yoga as a source of relaxation: basic principles and simple exercises Yoga is more than just a trend—it's a millennia-old practice that has helped people achieve inner peace. The combination of breathing exercises, physical postures, and meditation promotes flexibility, strengthens muscles, and helps reduce stress. Even a few minutes of yoga a day can make a noticeable difference in your everyday well-being. If you pause in the middle of your workday to practice a few yoga poses, you'll notice your mind clearing and your body feeling revitalized. Those new to yoga can start with a few simple poses, such as sun salutations or tree pose, which promote balance and concentration. These exercises can be easily integrated into your daily routine, whether in the morning to prepare for the day or in the evening to wind down. Yoga helps you develop an awareness of your body's boundaries, regulate your breathing, and strengthen the connection between body and mind. This not only makes you more physically flexible, but also mentally calmer and more relaxed. Introduction to the world of CBD: What it is and how it can work The hype surrounding CBD is hard to ignore. CBD stands for cannabidiol, an active ingredient extracted from hemp plants. Unlike THC, the psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, CBD is non-intoxicating and is legally available in Germany. Users report that CBD oils, capsules, and ointments help relieve symptoms such as sleep disorders, anxiety, and pain. Scientists are researching its properties, which may have anti-inflammatory and relaxing effects. Combining yoga and CBD could create an exciting synergy, one that brings balance to both the body and mind. Natural ways to improve well-being Traditional yoga practice and the use of CBD go hand in hand when it comes to naturally enhancing well-being. Yoga's holistic approach to improving quality of life can be excellently complemented by the potentially relaxing effects of CBD. Especially after strenuous yoga sessions, CBD could help deepen the feeling of recovery and relieve sore muscles. This interplay has a special power that enables us to tackle the challenges of everyday life with renewed energy. Creating a haven of peace in a stressful life Stress is one of the greatest enemies of health in our time. Yoga teaches us how to combat stress through conscious control of our breathing and the performance of targeted physical exercises. CBD can play a supporting role in this process by helping us achieve deeper relaxation and thus enhancing the stress-reducing effects of yoga. By incorporating these two remedies into your daily routine, you can create effective sanctuaries that help restore your inner balance and build resilience to stress. Mindfulness and well-being in harmony Mindfulness is a key concept in yoga philosophy. It's about focusing entirely on the present moment without judgment. This is a skill that can bring more contentment and peace into our lives. By using CBD, we may be able to achieve this state of mindfulness more easily. Furthermore, according to some reports, it supports the body's regenerative processes and contributes to restful sleep. Regular yoga practice combined with CBD can therefore be a valuable component of a mindful, wellness-focused lifestyle.

Yoga is healthy – on many levels. Perhaps you've experienced how yoga has helped you significantly in various situations in your life. The various yoga poses can have outstanding effects on flexibility, strength, and mobility. In this article, you'll learn the most helpful information on flexibility and which asanas you can implement in your everyday life. Flexibility and mobility: what's the difference? Flexibility is one of the five core motor skills and is therefore important for holistic health of body, mind, and soul. If your entire body is flexible, this also affects your way of thinking and the carousel of thoughts in your head. In everyday language, we often use the words "agility" and "flexibility" to mean the same thing. Strictly speaking, these are two different things. What is mobility? By mobility, we mean the movement of the joint (i.e., the manner in which it moves). The joint must be able to move without restricting the surrounding tissue. Therefore, the strength of the tissue plays a major role. If it is not strong enough, injuries can occur. If someone suffers an injury, they can no longer use the joint to its full extent. Furthermore, the body parts that play a role in the overall movement are affected. For example, if you need your upper arm to rotate your shoulders, an injury to your elbow can limit movement. What is flexibility? It can influence mobility. However, the reverse is not true: mobility does not affect flexibility. If a muscle is not flexible, mobility can suffer. In other words, you can remember this: Flexibility refers to the length of a muscle. Mobility, on the other hand, refers to the range of possible movement. Can yoga improve your flexibility? In general, it can be said that Buddhist asanas can make your body more flexible. Of course, this always depends on the practice you perform on your mat . Acro yoga, for example, is considered a type of yoga that can increase your flexibility. If you want to optimize your flexibility and body strength, you can try Budokon Yoga. Unlike other yoga styles, this combines typical asanas, bodyweight exercises (calisthenics), and martial arts (full-contact combat sports). In addition, more common yoga styles provide more flexibility and mobility, such as yoga exercises from Vinyasa Yoga, Ashtanga and Yin Yoga. What are the basics of flexibility training? Especially as a beginner, it is important to follow certain principles: You can identify your pain threshold and push yourself to it. If you feel the corners of your mouth no longer relaxed, then you've probably reached that threshold. It is important that you stretch slowly – while sitting on your meditation cushion , lying down or standing. The stretch should be done to the point where you reach the threshold of pain – only then can the effect take place. What are essential stretches? There are different ways you can stretch your shoulders, hips, arms, back, legs, and other parts of your body. a) Static stretching With this stretching exercise, it's important to place your muscle in a certain position, thereby stretching it. Then you stay in that position for about 20 seconds. b) Dynamic stretching This briefly activates the muscle and mobilizes the joints. This prepares the muscles for other, more challenging movements. c) Isometric stretching This type of stretch is characterized by the fact that the muscles involved in the movement work against the stretch. This tenses the muscles so that the tension is simultaneously reduced. d) Active-static This is also a static stretch. In this type of stretch, the antagonist muscle is used. However, the asana is followed by relaxation. e) Passive-static You'll need a partner or external support for this stretch, so it's a great option for partner yoga. Which yoga exercises help you become more mobile and flexible every day? If you want to work efficiently on your flexibility, you should practice the following asanas daily. 1. Dancer For beginners, performing this yoga pose may be challenging, as you'll need to have some balance training. This asana is perfect for developing your balance. At the same time, it stretches your leg muscles and back. You stand upright on one leg, stretching the other leg back and taking the foot in your hand. The other arm is extended forward while you maintain balance. 2. Seated forward bend This pose is very popular for relaxing and improving flexibility at the same time. You sit on your bottom and stretch your legs forward. Your upper body is directed downward, while your hands touch your feet. If you can't reach that far forward, it's okay at all—just grab whatever you can, your knees, your lower legs, etc. This posture ensures that your legs and back are sufficiently stretched. 3. Arch For this pose, lie on your stomach and bend your legs. With your feet in the air, your arms pointing behind you. Grab your feet with your hands, bending your upper body and legs like a bow. If you practice this asana regularly, you can stimulate your metabolism and stretch the front part of your body. 4. Shoulder stand To improve your hormone release, you can do the shoulder stand. You lie on your back and raise your legs in the air. You support yourself on your hips, with only your head, shoulders, and neck on the floor. This pose takes some getting used to at first. However, if you practice it regularly, you'll notice that it can make a difference in your well-being and the intensity of the stretch you can achieve. This exercise stretches your cervical spine and promotes flexibility in your spine and neck. Have you ever done any stretching and flexibility exercises? If so, what's your favorite?

The main benefits of yoga for body and mind The asanas from Buddhist teachings have a variety of effects on the body: Yogis report effects on body, mind, and soul. Do you know that feeling – you feel tired, exhausted, and completely disconnected from yourself? In this case, regular practice of Kundalini Yoga, Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Yin Yoga, or Vinyasa Yoga could be beneficial. In this article, we explain the 10 most important benefits of flow for your body and mind. Prepare to be amazed. 10 Benefits of Yoga for Body and Mind If you have a stressful daily routine and want to make the most of your breaks or free time, you should definitely incorporate yoga on your favorite mat . The following section provides all the necessary information. 1. Improved mobility and flexibility Sitting in front of a computer usually has negative effects on the body. The lack of exercise leads to rust over time. In this case, yoga is a good solution. The various asanas help you become more mobile and flexible. The exercises in Yin Yoga, for example, are specifically designed to stretch the body. 2. Reducing stress and tension The asanas have different effects depending on the yogi. Nevertheless, many report a reduced sense of stress and less physical tension. Those who are under pressure all day should incorporate the asanas daily to strengthen their inner balance. The reason this practice is so effective is that yoga exercises have a direct influence on the autonomic nervous system. During the exercises, you also focus on your breathing, which in turn affects your perception. Your breathing slows down, and tension throughout the body decreases. 3. Increase endurance and muscle strength Depending on which yoga exercises you practice, you can both bring relaxation into your stressful everyday life and strengthen your entire system at the same time. Muscles are stressed and strengthened during any physical activity. For example, if you practice a strenuous Ashtanga or Vinyasa Flow, you can be sure that your muscles will build with regular practice. Your strength will increase, and your endurance will also improve. The latter can be built up particularly through brisk sun salutations. If you're more focused on strong abdominal muscles, the upward-facing boat pose (Ado Mukha Navasana) can be a good option. Locust or bird pose will help you build your back. Warrior poses (I and II) are ideal for training your legs. 4. Improved breathing abilities If you decide to practice yoga regularly in your life, you can expect your breathing to improve as well. Breathing is a key aspect of the practice. Each pose has the right timing for inhaling and exhaling, meaning you focus on conscious breathing. In the stresses of everyday life, we often breathe too shallowly, meaning our bodies aren't supplied with enough oxygen. During a yoga flow, however, a yogi focuses so intensely on the breath that the entire body, all organs and cells, are supplied with sufficient oxygen. 5. Increased concentration skills If you often struggle with a lack of concentration, yoga is a good way to change this. When you practice a yoga flow, you consciously surrender to the moment. Your brain can be relieved, thus increasing your focus on what is essential. If you can concentrate on something specific with the help of yoga, you can implement this in your everyday life. Those who manage to focus their energies, actions, and abilities achieve much better results with significantly less effort. If, on the other hand, your focus is very scattered, it is not uncommon that you can hardly concentrate and achieve poor results. A subsequent meditation on your cushion can further increase the calm in your body and mind. 6. Increase self-confidence Self-confidence means having faith in yourself, knowing what you're doing, and knowing that your actions are effective and have an impact. Practicing yoga regularly can potentially boost your self-confidence. You know how your body feels and notice improvements. At the same time, you're connected to yourself, allowing you to trust yourself and your body. Furthermore, your connection to your own voice is strengthened. 7. Stabilized blood pressure Many people suffer from various physical complaints. One of these is high blood pressure, which can sometimes lead to other symptoms. Yoga can help support your blood pressure. When you are calm, your blood pressure drops. Because yoga has a direct effect on your stress levels, you can expect high blood pressure to drop again. Of course, this should be discussed and clarified with a doctor. 8.Improved sleep rhythm If you have trouble falling asleep, it could be due to various factors in your life. In this case, you should examine what's keeping you awake. Is it thoughts that are weighing on your mind, worries that are weighing on your mind, eating too much before bed, or the wrong room temperature? Ask yourself what the cause is and change it. For many people, it's the swirling thoughts that disrupt their nighttime rest. Yoga is effective in calming the chaos of thoughts and thus optimizing falling asleep and your overall sleep rhythm. To increase the effect, you should practice Yin Yoga and relaxing postures, including Pranayama (breathing exercises). 9. Strong immune system When your mind and body are in harmony, this has a direct effect on your immune system. If you want to stay healthy, you should exercise your body daily. Yoga is a great way to keep yourself fit and vital all year round. 10. Increased happiness and well-being as well as improved vital energy Do you want to do something for your psyche and finally feel happier and more fulfilled? Then Buddhist asanas are the perfect way to connect more with your body and feel relaxed and carefree. Through yoga, you can realize that you don't need anything external to be happy. You focus on your inner self and strengthen your connection to yourself. This automatically leads to a heightened sense of happiness and an improvement in your well-being. You'll also be able to perceive your energy much more clearly. This is especially achieved with the help of various exercises from Kundalini Yoga. Using special asanas, you move your life energy from your root chakra to your head. This leads to increased vital energy throughout your entire system. Conclusion Yoga has a significant impact on the body, mind, and soul. Therefore, you should incorporate the exercises into your daily routine to maximize its effectiveness and benefits—especially if you have a weak immune system, a lot of stress during the day, and struggle to concentrate. Do you practice yoga regularly? If so, what benefits can you confirm?

Yoga and the Mind Yoga is good for the mind—and certainly one of the reasons why many people practice it. Some prefer the more physical Hatha Yoga or even Power Yoga ; others love Kundalini Yoga , which also incorporates intensive breathing and even singing. The particular style is a matter of personal taste. You are also free to try other forms of yoga every day, or to incorporate meditation and breathing exercises . This takes up very little time and can open up entirely new spaces within yourself. Physical exercise reduces stress Whatever you choose, you'll feel better both physically and mentally. Physical yoga is like moderate exercise, and as we all know, it can make you happy; in any case, it's healthy for the body and increases contentment. In this respect, yoga, through the strenuous asanas alone, helps reduce stress and cope better with everyday worries. All you need is a simple mat ; of course, it can also be a beautiful one to make you feel even more comfortable (our tip: get one as a gift!). Or you can take a rainbow mat—after all, favorite colors are wonderful mood boosters. Breathe calmly Other types of yoga exercises calm your mind very quickly, even for beginners. It's not for nothing that we spontaneously advise agitated people to take a deep breath first. This can be achieved with calming yoga breathing exercises. Among them are very simple ones that encourage deep breathing into the lungs, sides, and abdomen; others involve nasal or tongue-and-mouth breathing – in either case, you need to concentrate; and this will calm your agitated senses. Focus and mindfulness – these are appropriate keywords, and not just for breathing. Perhaps you know the feeling of flow we experience whenever we are completely present with ourselves and the task at hand. We literally lose track of time, are awake and yet somehow lost – and then feel relaxed and happy. This can also be achieved through yoga. Block out the world for a moment Even simple meditation helps and is not difficult to learn. It focuses your attention on one point or lets your thoughts wander. Choose a comfortable meditation cushion or sit on a chair . Your eyes are half or completely closed and at first you just sense the peace and quiet of the room. Simply listen to the sounds of your surroundings, don't judge them: hear the children on the street, a passing car, birdsong or your peacefully running washing machine. Try your exercises outside and sit comfortably on a park bench, for example. Let yourself sink in, enjoy the quacking of ducks, the wind in the trees and the babbling of a brook. Wherever you are: in any case, within a few seconds you will feel your psyche recover. There is only you and this moment; for a few minutes or half an hour the rest of the world is unimportant. Don't let a cell phone ring disturb you (i.e. turn it off beforehand) and find a place where people aren't constantly walking past if you don't want to be suddenly spoken to and disturbed during your practice. Yoga and more But is this still yoga? Well, that depends on your interpretation. Meditation is a part of yoga, but it can also stand alone. If you want to relax permanently and also do something for your metabolism and blood pressure, yoga exercises of all kinds are a very good method. With breathing exercises and meditation, you simply have even more options for targeted relaxation in a very short time, even on the go. Relax this way, for example, in a park, on the train, or during a stressful company meeting—in other words, anywhere where you can't practice asanas. Image © tundephoto

Meditation - inner peace Enjoy life calmly and peacefully through meditation Our everyday lives are often characterized by hecticness and stress. A flood of information and tasks crashes down on us, and we feel overwhelmed. Our productivity declines, and with it our joy in life. We're barely able to recharge. Even our evenings after work are filled with problems and responsibilities. For those who recognize themselves and their life in these statements, it is urgently time to do something for themselves and their inner peace. Meditation can act as a small "miracle cure." If you can commit to it, it will quickly lead to a rediscovery of inner peace, serenity, and joy in life. What is meditation? Negative-minded people who have not dealt with it sufficiently and only know meditation as a buzzword often put this wonderful method in the esoteric corner. The word meditation comes from the Latin "meditari," meaning to ponder, consider, and reflect. The mind is meant to become collected and calm. In Western countries, general well-being is achieved through meditation. The goal is to relax the muscles and mind in order to restore physical and mental balance. Through targeted exercises, we can learn to become "one" with ourselves again. Thousands of years ago, wise people discovered that meditation teaches us to let go of our fears and worries. Meditation, when practiced correctly , is an art of opening ourselves to the moment. For some of us, it may seem like a small miracle at first when the mind relaxes and stress or anxiety falls away. But it's actually just a method of calming our mind and body. With a little practice, anyone can learn and apply the exercises. Find peace and serenity When we're plagued by stress, worry, and anxiety, we urgently need to do something to achieve inner peace. Otherwise, we become increasingly distant from our true selves. We become irritable and have difficulty concentrating on what's important. This is certainly the moment we should reconnect with ourselves through daily meditation. Meditation is a recognized method for combating stress and by no means esoteric nonsense. We can be reached via our smartphones every minute of the day. Why shouldn't we also allow ourselves to relax our mental state at any time? Through meditation, we always have our mobile oasis of calm and balance within us. We don't have to charge it or carry it around with us; we can use it anywhere. It costs us no money, just a little time and practice every day. Our body recharges, we can relax, and our strength returns. It is very easy to improve our physical, mental and emotional well-being. Just a few minutes a day are enough The positive effects of meditation unfold when we take about 15 minutes a day to meditate quietly. Our subconscious mind prefers to meditate at the same time every day, which further enhances the effect. Even after a short period of practice, we notice that we become significantly calmer, more tolerant, and more alive. Meditation naturally balances and calms us, without the need for sedatives. Those who meditate before a difficult task or exam approach the situation with less anxiety and handle it with calm and serenity. A little practice is enough, and anyone can meditate anytime, anywhere. ©iStock.com/FotoMaximum

Overcoming feelings of guilt: the five best tips Being human means experiencing many emotions. Humans can experience countless different emotions or feelings: When they're pleasant, it's all the easier. Fear, anger, sadness, or guilt, on the other hand, are usually more challenging, and many people find it difficult to deal with them appropriately. If you haven't behaved according to your moral standards, feelings of guilt can haunt you. To successfully overcome these feelings, you can follow the tips presented in this article. Why should you work on guilt and when is it appropriate? Everyone knows the feeling of doing something and then a thousand feelings of guilt popping up in your head. Is this the case for you too? Then you should take the time to reflect and let them go. Constantly complaining about a guilty conscience isn't doing yourself any good. You can adjust your behavior in the future, but there's no point in torturing yourself for past situations. This reduces your joy in life and also affects your physical and mental health. Also important: Feelings of guilt sometimes arise in the context of low self-esteem or a lack of self-confidence. You need to differentiate: Was your behavior really wrong and did you make a mistake? If this was the case, you can ensure that your behavior or approach changes in the future. Be aware that the first step is to become aware of this. This way, you can adjust your thoughts accordingly and steer your behavior in the right direction. Are you just being told that you behaved wrongly? We often experience toxic behavior in relationships. Phrases like "If you were a true friend, you would..." are commonplace. If you hear such phrases, you should be aware that your conscience is being played on. It could also be emotional blackmail. You don't tell a true friend that they should have done this or that. In this case, the guilt isn't necessarily appropriate; instead, you should reflect on the friendship or relationship. The five best tricks for dealing with guilt In the following section, we will explain the most sustainable methods you can use to deal with feelings of guilt. Tip 1: Perceive and recognize feelings Often, we are plagued by a feeling, but can't quite identify it. If, over time, you realize it's guilt, you should take a closer look and try to understand what exactly happened. In this context, it can be helpful to talk to other people or write down your feelings. You can be sure that this is very valuable in reducing your feelings of guilt. Questions could be: What did you do or not do that made you feel guilty? Have you violated your rights or those of others? Have you violated your values or those of another person? If you find it difficult to go deep and relax, a yoga session on the mat can help you to get deeper into yourself and your body. Tip 2: Everything is fine and you are wonderful You made a mistake. That's completely human, and everyone makes various mistakes throughout their lives. This is partly due to our patterns, beliefs, or entanglements from the past. As a result, we don't always manage to act the way we or others might want. In this context, it's important to try to understand that you are perfect as you are—even if you made this "mistake." This is the most important step to continuing on your path without guilt. Furthermore, working on the patterns can help you avoid problems in the future. Tip 3: Forgiveness Ritual To move on, you need to forgive yourself and everyone around you who was involved in this issue. This can be done with the help of a small ritual. If you want, you can write everything on a piece of paper and then burn it. Alternatively, you can just write the sentence "I forgive myself for this mistake and love and accept myself as I am" on a small piece of paper and then burn it. If circumstances allow, you could do this ritual together with those you have hurt. Tip 4: What can you do to make amends? The first step to gaining understanding in a conversation is to admit your mistake and say you're sorry. Many people won't be able to accept it the first time. If they do, you can repeat it several times. It's also advisable to ask what you can do to make amends. Of course, the answer always depends on the specific problem. It makes a difference whether you've caused significant damage or not. This conversation should be as open and authentic as possible so that both sides are satisfied with the solutions. This usually helps you get rid of your guilt. If this doesn't work immediately, consider other things you can do to make yourself feel better. Important : The feelings of guilt can of course be resolved externally, but at the same time the internal step of forgiving yourself is essential to bring about lasting change. What should you do if the other person has already died and no compensation is possible? It's not uncommon that you can't make amends for everything. In this case, you can perform a small ritual in which you write everything down in a letter, which you can then burn or tear into small pieces and throw into the river. You should also know that you aren't dependent on outside people forgiving you—first and foremost, you must forgive yourself. Tip 5: How can you avoid these problems in the future? The goal should be to avoid these situations in which you feel guilty. This means becoming clear about what caused you to behave in a certain way in such a situation (e.g., conditioning, patterns, beliefs, etc.). Once you've recognized this, you'll be able to avoid it in the future. Helpful : A nice, deep meditation on your pillow is helpful to see the whole situation from a bird's eye view and to understand the connections that can be used to avoid it. Are you familiar with feelings of guilt? If so, how do you deal with them? What are your experiences?