Unwinding the festive hangover

As the festival season draws to a close, it leaves a trail of joyous memories and stress! Post-festive stress, a condition that is often overlooked, can cast a shadow as we transition back to our daily routines. Renowned actor and yoga guru Bijay J Anand reveals some secrets to overcoming this problem and regaining balance.

Returning to routine after a prolonged period of celebrations can be daunting. The revelry often disrupts diet and sleep patterns, leading to what Bijay terms ‘severe post-Diwali stress.’ However, he emphasizes that this stress is really bad only for those who completely let go, indulging repeatedly in prolonged parties and returning home in a less-than-sober state.

Yoga shows the way

For those seeking relief from the aftermath of festive indulgence, yoga offers an effective solution. But, rather than viewing it as a quick fix, Bijay stresses that it should be adopted as part of one’s lifestyle, an ongoing practice that extends beyond the confines of a class. Yoga, he explains, is a continuous journey towards wellbeing.

Kriyas to bid adieu to toxins

Bijay recommends the following kriyas to cleanse oneself from toxins accumulated as the result of extended revelry:

Trataka: Focus intensely on a single point, such as a candle flame, to enhance concentration.

Chanting: Devote 20 minutes daily to chanting your favourite mantra for inner calm.

Shankha Mudra with OM Chanting: Combine this specific hand gesture with the vibrational OM chant for a holistic experience.

Silent Meditation: Simply focus on your breath, allowing the mind to settle in serene stillness.

Anulom Vilom: Practice alternate nostril breathing to restore balance to the body and mind.

Tips to return to normality

To smoothly transition back to normal life after festivities, Bijay suggests:

Timely Sleep: Immediately resume a regular sleep schedule.

Alkaline Diet: Avoid acidic foods and focus on alkalizing the body.

Fasting: Go on a short-term fast, consuming fruits and mild khichdi before 7 p.m.

Bijay’s insights offer a holistic approach to navigating the challenges of post-festive stress through the timeless wisdom of yoga. His advice is geared to ensuring that stress doesn’t linger like an unwelcome guest, but becomes a doorway to self-discovery, an opportunity to integrate timeless holistic practices into daily life, fostering not just physical wellbeing but a harmonious union of mind, body and spirit.