Yoga helps reduce stress, improve mental clarity

LAHORE: “Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in ancient India. It combines postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditation to promote overall well-being, flexibility, strength and relaxation. The aim of yoga is to balance the body, mind and spirit, reduce stress and improve mental clarity”.

These views were expressed during a special health seminar titled “Yoga Life”, jointly organised by Mir Khalil-ur-Rahman Memorial Society (Jang Group of Newspapers), King Edward Medical University and Yoga Cruise & Fitness.

The seminar was presided over by Provincial Minister for Primary and Secondary Health Khawaja Imran Nazir. The guests of honour included King Edward Medical University Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mahmood Ayaz and Chief Organiser PESS Malik Aziz Ahmed Awan. A special lecture was delivered by Humaira Khan (Founder of Cruise Yoga & Fitness).

The speakers included Dean, Institute of Public Health Prof Dr Saira Afzal, Punjab University Sports Director Dr Shabbir Sarwar, Prof Dr Arsha Meer (Mass Communication Department, Lahore College for Women University), and Allama Iqbal Medical College Principal Prof Dr Tayyaba Waseem. A vote of thanks was presented by Pro Vice-Chancellor King Edward Medical University and Chairman of Department of Ophthalmology Prof Dr M Moin.

The seminar was hosted by Wasif Nagi, Chairman of Mir Khalil-ur-Rahman Memorial Society, Jang Group.In his speech, Khawaja Imran Nazir emphasised importance of taking time out for oneself, stating if we are not healthy, we cannot achieve our goals in life. For a better life, we need to prioritise physical fitness, Khawaja Imran said.

“Yoga is about finding balance and harmony within ourselves. Pranayama, or breathing exercises, helps calm the mind, regulates breathing and increases lung capacity, all contributing to a healthier and happier life”, he said.

Prof Dr Mahmood Ayaz noted God has given us a built-in form of exercise in the form of namaz (Islamic prayer), which when offered regularly, keeps us healthy. “Yoga offers many benefits, including improved flexibility, strength and balance. It also helps reduce stress and anxiety, improves sleep quality and enhances mood”, Dr Mahmood said.

Yoga is a safe and effective practice for people of all ages, and fitness levels and can be adapted to individual needs and abilities, he said.

Humaira Khan said yoga has transformed not only her life, but also lives of hundreds of women. “Whether it’s weight loss, hormonal balance or regaining mental peace and physical strength, yoga makes it all possible”, she said.She explained yoga means “union” - a connection between body, breath, mind and soul. Breathing techniques, meditation, and a positive lifestyle can influence our internal body systems. Yoga, she said, is the first step towards true beauty.

Prof Dr Tayyaba Waseem said yoga is especially important for pregnant women. “Prenatal yoga offers numerous physical and mental benefits, including increased flexibility, reduced stress and anxiety and better sleep”, Dr Tayyaba told the participants.

She was of the view yoga helps alleviate common pregnancy discomforts like back pain and nausea, and prepare the body for childbirth. It helps prevent many diseases, and the first step is to improve our sleep cycle, she advised.

Prof Dr Arsha Meer spoke about the role of social media in promoting yoga, a centuries-old practice. “Social media is a powerful tool for connecting people, sharing information and creating impact”, Dr Arsha said.

In the field of wellness, it has changed how we access knowledge and support. Yoga has found an ideal platform on social media, and it should be used to spread awareness about yoga in communities, Dr Arsha emphasised.

Dr Shabbir Sarwar spoke about the strong connection between yoga and sports. For athletes, physical and mental performance is essential, he said, adding yoga is an ancient practice that combines postures, breathing and meditation to unlock our full potential.

It helps athletes attain flexibility, balance and strength, reduce injury risks and improve performance, he told the gathering. Through meditation and breathing techniques, yoga develops mental toughness, focus and concentration, enabling athletes to stay in the zone, he noted.

Wasif Nagi said people are suffering from numerous illnesses that can be addressed through yoga.Prof Dr M Moin concluded the seminar with words of gratitude for all the participants. —Report by Eisha Asif