A few weeks ago, I had one of those afternoons that left me feeling physically drained, emotionally exhausted, and 100% grumpy. All I wanted to do was collapse on the couch and put on some mindless TV. Maybe I would take a little nap or maybe I would stare listlessly at the TV while I watched Phoebe discover that Monica and Chandler were a couple <gasp>.
Unfortunately (or fortunately) for me, a lazy afternoon was not in the cards. I had to go teach a yoga class instead. Ugh, how would I help others feel better when I felt like a stalk of celery left on the counter overnight?
A couple hours later, I waltzed out of the community center having just taught a lovely class. I was walking on air, with music flowing through my mind, a smile on my face, and a definite pep in my step.
What the heck? How is this possible?
Perhaps you have a similar yoga story. Most of us do! The magic of yoga can be explained in several different ways. Today, let's take a look at some brain chemistry.
Let's talk about gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a neurotransmitter that reduces neural activity. The results are increased feelings of calm and relaxation. Certain anti-anxiety medications, in fact, work by increasing the release of GABA. This neurotransmitter is what alcohol mimics in the body, leading to those feelings of increased peace and happiness. Yay for GABA!
Guess what? A 2020 research study found that the practice of yoga (with breathwork) increases the levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. By comparing levels of GABA before and after a one-hour yoga class, they found that post-yoga GABA levels were 27% higher than pre-yoga levels.
Not only does one session of yoga increase this feel-good neurotransmitter, but by establishing a regular yoga practice, you could increase the baseline level of GABA in your body. This would help you to enjoy a calmer and less anxious demeanor overall, also helping you to react less to triggering situations.
Will this help you to never have a bad day? Will this ensure that you never have the desire to collapse on the couch and watch Joey stick his head into a raw turkey? Most definitely not.
Life is life and no one is immune to its fickle moods; however, yoga, breathing, and GABA help those moods to be shorter lived while experiences of happy calm to be more of a regular in your life.
You in?
I'm in. See ya on the mat!