MEMORY: A DYNAMIC PROCESS OF THE MIND

Memory goes beyond retaining information and remembering something when the need arises. It is a dynamic faculty of the mind that actively analyzes the assimilated information and processes it to be used by our mind and body, consciously or unconsciously. An example of this is the large amount of information that comes daily into our lives. We filter the irrelevant part and keep only what is or can be useful for us. A good memory is the key to a healthy and prosperous life.

IT IS NECESSARY TO TRAIN THE MIND TO SHARPEN THE MEMORY

The importance of memory in our daily life needs no explanation. At each moment we have new information, events, events and events that have to be taken into account, or not. In order to cope with all this, we have to train our mind in a way that reinforces the dynamic aspect of memory. However, most methods and techniques to improve our memory tend to fail, since their effort is only in the static process of retaining information.

WHY ARE YOGA TECHNIQUES GOOD FOR IMPROVING MEMORY?

Yoga takes into account static memory and dynamics, thus strengthening all the faculties of the mind: retention, analysis and recovery. The practice of yoga makes us pay attention to the present moment, sharpens audio-visual perception, strengthens cognition, and facilitates the processing of sensory information. The practice of yoga (the combination of asanas, breathing exercises and different meditation techniques) stimulates the blood supply to the brain. This facilitates the general health of the brain and improves concentration. In addition to being excellent for improving memory, it improves cognitive abilities in general.

WAYS THAT YOGA WORKS TO IMPROVE MEMORY

Yoga postures (asanas) : There are two main yoga postures that address physical and mental problems to facilitate general well-being: Candle (Sarvangasana) and La cobra (Bhujangasana) . Both yoga postures offer a great improvement for memory. The Vertical posture head down (Shirshasana) is a specific posture for the improvement of the functions of the mind such as memory. Regular practice greatly enhances memory and improves concentration and attention. The yoga postures that involve bending forward as flexion foot forward   (Uttanasana) and flexion towards sitting in front (Paschimottanasana)They are also good for improving memory, acting on the spinal cord and the nervous system.

Breathing exercises (Pranayama) : Pranayama focuses the mind on breathing, as the air enters and leaves the lungs. The process increases the oxygen level in the body and stimulates the flow of spiritual energy or prana, in the mind, which gives an impulse to the memory. Kapalbhati , Bhastrika and Bhramariare the three best pranayamas for memory.

Meditation : Meditation sitting in Perfect posture (Siddhasana) , Lotus posture (Padmasana) or Cross legged posture (Sukhasana) is a great memory aid. The effect increases when meditation is done while chanting a mantra. It is not necessary to use long mantras with difficult pronunciation. With the singing of Om is enough for this purpose.

Dharana : Dharana is the practice of yoga that is based on concentration and the ability to direct the mind. It results in greater mental strength and better work efficiency. It also induces peace and tranquility. Daily practice is very beneficial for body and mind.

These yoga practices, as a whole, go far beyond improving memory. They provide us with mental strength and clear, focused and directional thinking, together with an improvement in memory.

CONCLUSIONS

According to Joan Shivarpita Harringan, Director of Patanjali Kundalini Yoga Care, if you practice yoga regularly, you can change the automatic patterns of your nervous system over time. You can change the physiological processes and stimulate the positive neurotransmitters in the brain to lay the foundations of a calm and peaceful life with clarity of purpose, as well as the receptivity and retentive power of the mind.