We had a chat with our yoga expert, Mia, about how to elevate your wellbeing during these challenging times. It’s safe to say that 2020 has been tough for many. For those undergoing fertility treatments, the interruptions and restrictions have been particularly overwhelming. The silver lining, however, is that as the year has unfolded, offices have reopened, clinics have adjusted, and we’ve gained a deeper appreciation for mindfulness.
At TFP, we’ve long championed the importance of mental health practices for our patients, many of whom are navigating one of the most stressful periods of their lives, especially amid the ongoing pandemic. Mia shared insights on how mindfulness can enhance mental health and improve both physical and emotional wellbeing – and why now is an ideal time to begin.
THE MIND-BODY LINK
The relationship between mental and physical health has only recently gained recognition in mainstream science. Stress can significantly affect our bodies, often leading to insomnia and loss of appetite. Finding effective ways to manage stress and anxiety can positively influence our mental state and contribute to better physical health.
Many of us can relate to feeling unwell when stressed. Mia points out, “When we push negative emotions aside, we can block our energy centers.” There’s some science to back this idea. Instead of suppressing our feelings, it’s crucial to sit with them, acknowledge them, and truly experience them. “When we face our pain, name it, and bring it into the light, we start healing, re-centering, and achieving balance. Pain exists to alert us to issues.”
This “pain” doesn’t have to stem from trauma or loss; it could be daily discomfort from isolation, work stress, or future uncertainties. It’s important to recognize this discomfort so that we can address it. “If we touch a hot stove, we don’t ignore the pain; we remove our hand and allow it to heal. Why should emotional pain be treated any differently? It deserves the same care and attention as physical pain,” Mia explains.
Acknowledging that things could be better right now is part of living fully. Instead of pushing away feelings of discomfort, embracing them can help us process and move forward in a healthier way. This approach is central to the mindfulness that yoga promotes. And, let’s not forget the physical perks of yoga, like enhanced muscle tone, flexibility, and strength!
NAVIGATING UNCERTAINTY
Yoga and mindfulness can also aid those facing fertility challenges and anyone grappling with the unpredictability life throws at us – especially relevant during 2020. Mia reflects on her upbringing in the Midwest, where the mindset was often about overcoming and controlling outcomes. “I was taught to dominate challenges, but I learned that not everything can be controlled. Recognizing what we can and cannot change is essential.”
The hard work lies in our inner growth rather than changing the external world. “The Buddhist nun, Pema Chodron, has a saying: Abandon hope. It sounds gloomy, but it’s not. It calls for presence, acceptance, and living in the moment.” Anyone who has tried mindfulness knows how tricky it is to stay present amidst distractions.
Yoga helps by anchoring our thoughts to the present, focusing on our movements, breath, and surroundings. This practice can help clear the mind of negative thought patterns, and while it’s not a miracle cure, mindfulness can indeed rewire our brains.
Mia asserts that now, more than ever, we need to turn inward. “The pandemic forced us to spend more time inside, prompting many to confront their internal landscapes. It can feel daunting, but it’s often the only way forward. Yoga and meditation provided me with a new perspective on my life and mental health. Everyone has their own practices that resonate with them, whether it’s yoga, dancing, or simply enjoying nature.”
If you’re curious about childcare costs related to fertility treatments, check out this insightful post on childcare expenses. You can also explore resources on at-home insemination kits from Make a Mom. And for a week-by-week guide to pregnancy, March of Dimes offers excellent support.
In summary, yoga can be a powerful tool for enhancing both mental and physical wellbeing, especially in uncertain times. Embracing our emotions and focusing on the present can lead to a healthier mindset and better overall health.