Q: What aspects of yoga can help me balance my emotions during February’s ups and downs?

M. Brown – Glasgow

A: Yoga offers tools for emotional balance by harmonizing body, breath, and mind. Practicing Mantras, such as the universal sound “Om,” helps center the mind and regulate emotions. Incorporate Pratyahara (sense withdrawal) by practicing a short 5-minute meditation where you focus only on your breath, letting go of external distractions. Heart-opening poses like Bridge Pose or Cobra Pose can release stored tension in the chest, which often holds emotional stress. Yoga encourages you to observe emotions without attachment, teaching resilience and emotional steadiness even during challenging times.