What relaxation tools are you regularly practicing?
Meditation, deep breathing, or immersion in nature? Maybe yoga or visualization. Or perhaps you prefer a combination of your favorites. Taking time to refresh throughout the day is a wellness ritual that will support the mind, body, and spirit connection. Today, I’d like to introduce you to a practice that may surprise you.
I read an inspiring column by Mark Walden and Andrew Newberg, M.D. in the May 2021 issue of Science of Mind that focused on the benefits of mindful yawning. Because I’m in the business of promoting love, joy and good health, I decided to include this method in my relaxation toolkit and share it with you.
We all yawn occasionally, but have you ever yawed intentionally?
Open your mouth wide, suck in some air and make a little noise. Try it two more time. You got it. How did that little diversion make you feel?
According to Walden and Newberg, an easy way to enter that relaxed state of “being-ness” is through three mindful yawns. They suggest that you pay attention to where the yawn starts and what it feels like. Sit quietly for twenty seconds and see if there are any noticeable changes in your mood or mental state. The authors claim that after the first or second yawn some people say they feel relaxed or stimulated.
The science behind yawning...
Want to prepare yourself for further intentional action? There’s actually a science behind yawning. In 2021, CBS Sunday Morning featured “Why We Yawn,” a story that reviewed Gallup’s research by professor Andrew Gallup, of the State University of New York's Polytechnic Institute, showing that “yawning increases blood flow to our brains as a way of cooling them, much like a radiator cools a car engine.” This is the brain’s way of instantly boosting alertness and concentration.
If you need another tool to destress or a quick hack to refocus, take time to master the mindful yawning technique. Try blending it with your meditation sessions. You may discover that you’re actually able to slow down those areas of the brain that cause worry and uncertainty.
Consider This
Want to learn more about yawning? Check out “10 Little Known Facts About Yawning” from activebeat.com.
Four Steps to Nourish, Transform and Flourish
• Set a loving intention to try the mindful yawning method.
• Begin by practicing yawning for a few minutes each day, especially during those times when you need to relax.
• How will intentional yawning support the mind, body and spirit connection?
• Close your eyes and visualize how this lifestyle change can prepare you for your amazing second half.
Need help establishing a relaxation ritual that supports your lifestyle?
It can be challenging to maintain momentum on your own. My Sprout Your New Life™ course will give you the tools and the strong spiritual foundation to make lasting change in your life. Click here for more.
In love, peace and health--
Your feminine glow guide,
T. Kari Mitchell, M.Ed.
Motivational Speaker
Certified Holistic Health Coach
Lifestyle120.com
When your spirit is nourished, your inner light produces an outer glow reflecting your beauty and truth.