Antidote for Fear
There are many techniques in the Yogic toolbag for dealing with fear. Also some from Traditional Chinese Medicine viewpoint. A few I’ll mention and give bits of info as time permits. One can explore via books or the web. So some methods are:
- Pranayama
- Mantra
- Prayer
- Meditation
PRANAYAMA
Can be translated as control of or extension of the life force. Basically it’s breathing practices that have various effects. One very easy pranayama is called Alternate Nostril Breathing or Nadi Shodana. There are many books that outline a beginners practice of this technique. The beauty of Yoga is that it can take you from whereever you are-a bed ridden person can do certain techniques and a young healthy person can do other techniques and everyone in between.
So the best way to learn pranayama is from an experienced teacher. But there are many books on yoga that include some information on pranayama. The beginning practice might be just practicing deep breathing in a reclining position, filling all of the lungs without strain, and smoothing out the breath pattern simply by first observing it. See Light on Yoga by B.K.S Iyengar, or in the Sivananda, Kripalu or other traditions for more info. It is extremely important to not overdo pranayama, it can have serious negative consequences on an unprepared person, so the texts warn.
MANTRA
One mantra that is reputed to help calm and quiet fears is “Om Namo Narayanaya.” See any book by Ashley Farrand on Mantra.
Another is “OM Tara Tuttare Ture Swaha.” from the Buddhist tradition. And simply any prayer especially repeated, will serve to keep the mind from falling back into it’s tracks or grooves of negativity, especially if one has faith in it.
To be continued….
