‘YOGA MADE ME MORE DISCIPLINED AND CALM’
From Pranayam to Sirsasana, actor Mallika Sherawat talks about her love for yoga, how it has benefited her, and her favourite asanas
Actor Mallika Sherawat, who established herself in Bollywood despite having no connections in the industry, says that success came with a lot of pressure. Known for bold films such as Khwahish (2003) and Murder (2004), the actor admits that stress did take a toll on her at times; however, it was yoga that kept her going. She also credits her yoga routine for keeping her fit and glowing.
The 41-year-old was introduced to yoga at a young age and since then she has stayed loyal to the practice. “I was introduced to yoga in my teens and it has helped me immensely. It has made me more disciplined, strong, and calm. There are days when I am extremely stressed... I do a few yoga asanas and the stress goes away,” says Sherawat.
A regular at Cannes film festival, she reveals that she practises yoga even when she is at Cannes as it is swarming with photographers from all over the world and your every move, minute, and detail gets noticed. So, there is immense pressure and Pranayam (rhythmic deep breathing) helps her relax.
She swears by yoga not just for relaxation but also for its beauty benefits. “Yoga tones the skin and improves oxygen supply to the skin, imparting it a beautiful glow. It also keeps the skin youthful and free of problems. Same goes for the hair — yoga helps to promote blood circulation to the scalp and hair follicles. The best yoga to enhance your beauty is Pranayam. Its regular practice helps improve oxygen distribution to cells across the body through blood. Anulom Vilom, Kapalbhati, Bhastrika, and Bhrami are a few yoga kriyas one can try,” suggests Sherawat.
Her favourite asanas that she practices every day are Sirsasana (headstand) and Chakrasana (backbend) in the mornings as it gives her an immense burst of energy.
“I try to do forward bends in the evening and simple twists for relaxation, Paschimottasana (seated forward bend) being my favourite,” adds the actor.