The impact of Yin Yoga on our autonomic nervous system
Our autonomic nervous system regulates involuntary bodily functions, such as breathing, heart rate, digestion and sleep. It consists of two branches: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. Both are essential for our survival and health, but they serve different functions.
Sympathetic Nervous System: This system is often called the fight-or-flight response. It is activated in situations of stress or danger, preparing the body to react quickly. When the sympathetic system is active, blood is directed to the limbs, enabling us to either run or fight. Stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol are released, making us alert, but in the long run (like with chronic stress), these can be harmful to our body.
Parasympathetic Nervous System: This system is known as the rest-and-repair mode. It is activated when we relax, eat or sleep. It ensures that the body recovers, stimulates digestion and slows down the heart rate and breathing. This is the system we need to recover from stress and maintain balance.
We need both systems because we must be able to take action and sometimes truly be able to 'fight or flee.' However, there must be a balance; from relaxation to action and from action to relaxation.
Unfortunately, in modern society, we are often overstimulated. From the constant stream of information on social media to the pressures of work and personal life, many people are in a chronic state of stress. As a result, we often remain in the sympathetic state (fight-or-flight), even when there is no immediate danger. This can lead to issues such as high blood pressure, digestive problems and problems with sleeping. And even to much more serious diseases.
Yin Yoga helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system by calming the body on a deeper level. The long-held, deep stretches in Yin Yoga invite relaxation and allow the body to step out of the "fight-or-flight" response. By focusing on breathing, deep stretching and holding poses for longer durations, Yin Yoga creates the perfect conditions to switch on the parasympathetic system. This helps lower stress hormones, enhances blood flow to the organs and supports the recovery process.
Balancing the autonomic nervous system through Yin Yoga is not only beneficial for the body but also for the mind. It reduces chronic stress, helps alleviate anxiety and contributes to a better night's sleep. In these fast-paced times, where we are constantly overstimulated and rushing, it is crucial to find moments of rest and recovery and Yin Yoga offers exactly that.