The nervous system is composed of pathways in the body that control movement. In yogic terms, the nervous system is part of the sixth chakra, or the part of the body that contains the mind. Yoga postures to strengthen the nervous system focus on this chakra. Talk to your doctor before beginning this or any exercises program.
Head Stand
Salamba sirsasana, or supported headstand, is the ultimate posture for the sixth and seventh chakras. Turning the body upside down reverses the effects of gravity. According to Yoga Journal, this pose calms the brain and helps relieve stress and mild depression. It is also helps stimulate the pituitary and pineal glands.
Begin in a kneeling position. Interlace your fingers and rest the crown of your head in your hands. Begin to walk your feet closer to your body, then lift one leg at a time overhead. Use your core muscles to support your body. Breathe deeply and hold for up to one minute. Alternatively, you can practice this against an empty wall for extra support.
Shoulder Stand
Salamba sarvangasana, or supported shoulder stand, is another inversion posture for the sixth chakra. Like the head stand, it is designed to help calm the mind and relieve stress while stimulating the glands in the neck and base of the brain. It is used therapeutically to reduce fatigue and alleviate insomnia.
Begin by lying flat on your back with your knees bent. Place your hands on your lower back for support. As you exhale, lift both legs straight into the air high above your head. Your body weight should be primarily on your shoulders and across the upper back, not on the neck. Breathe deeply and hold for up to one minute.
Downward-facing Dog Pose
Adho mukha svanasana, or downward-facing dog pose, is typically used as a transition pose. A gentler inversion, this posture helps to calm the mind and relieve stress, while simultaneously energizing the body. It is a versatile pose that is used therapeutically to treat several disorders of the nervous system including headaches, insomnia, back pain, sciatica and fatigue.
Begin in a kneeling position. As you exhale, lift the hips up toward the ceiling while straightening the legs. Press your body weight into your heels and keep the arms strong. Allow the head to just hang, letting go of any stress in the neck and upper back. Breathe deeply and hold for up to one minute.
Child's Pose
Balasana, also known as child's pose, is a resting pose, and is generally practiced at the end of a session or between sets to relax the body. It relieves stress and anxiety, while calming the mind. Its main therapeutic application is stress, although it is sometimes used to treat back and neck pain.
Come to a kneeling position on the mat. Fold forward and rest your head on the floor with your hands stretched out at your side or overhead. If this is uncomfortable, try folding your hands under your hand and using them as a pillow. Breathe easy and clear your mind. Hold this position for one or two minutes.
