Finding Your Calm: The Power of Yoga in College Life
Photo taken by Mōhailani Peloso
Breathe, stretch, and reset: Discover how yoga can calm your mind and improve your focus.
As students, we are constantly juggling assignments, exams, and social responsibilities. It is no surprise that anxiety often creeps in, leaving us overwhelmed and distracted. However, I have found one simple practice that helps me manage these feelings and reclaim my peace of mind: yoga.
I first turned to yoga during my freshman-year midterms, hoping to find something to ground me. I was not sure what to expect, but what I discovered was eye-opening. Yoga allowed me to shift my focus entirely from the chaos of my thoughts to the sensations of my body. I could breathe deeply, stretch, and feel every muscle move, which gave me a mental break and provided relief from constant overthinking. The stillness and mindfulness cultivated through yoga helped calm my anxiety, left me more focused and refreshed, and allowed for more effective studying, resulting in better scores on my midterms.
Science also supports the benefits of yoga! Research has shown that yoga effectively reduces stress and anxiety by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation. The physical postures (asanas) promote flexibility and strength, while the breathwork (pranayama) helps us stay centered. Through this combination, yoga provides a holistic approach to managing mental health that nurtures both the body and the mind.
Incorporating yoga into your routine does not require years of experience, perfect flexibility, or a lot of freetime. It is about being present, breathing, and honoring your body in the time that you have. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced yogi, the practice is accessible to all. I encourage you to try out yoga by joining one of the yoga classes offered at Baun Fitness gym. There is a welcoming community of students who practice together, and these classes are a wonderful opportunity to de-stress and prioritize your mental health. The weekly schedule can be found on the Baun Fitness Instagram!
As the famous yogi B.K.S. Iyengar once said, “Yoga teaches us to cure what need not be endured and endure what cannot be cured.” This simple truth resonates deeply, reminding us that we hold the power to accept and transform our lives. So, if you are feeling stressed or overwhelmed, try attending a yoga class at Baun. It is a practice that encourages not just strength in the body, but also peace in the mind.
Take the first step today, and see how yoga can help you find your center amidst the chaos of college.