International Yoga Day 2023: Individuals will find peace and acceptance by exploring and connecting with something greater than themselves, be it nature, art, or any other concept that gives their life meaning and purpose. Finding inner peace is ultimately a unique and individual journey including a complex interaction of psychological, social, and spiritual aspects.
Yoga's transforming potential is a multifaceted idea. It involves both mental and spiritual practises, such as self-discovery and self-awareness, ethics and values, and connection with a higher power or consciousness, as well as physical practices including yoga poses (asanas), breathing methods (pranayama), and meditation.
Additionally, yoga is also a philosophy that incorporates numerous notions, ideas, and techniques based on ancient Hindu traditions and scriptures.
In this regard, ABP Live sought the opinion of experts in this field to help you know and understand the transformative power of yoga.
Nikhil Kapur, who is the Co-Founder & Director at Atmantan Wellness Centre shared the concept of 'self' which is a state of being one with the world around us. He said, "At its most fundamental level, the self is not a distinct entity but rather transcends individual thoughts, desires, and experiences. It is a state of being one with the world around us, moving towards perceiving the oneness amidst the diversity of existence. At this level of awareness, there is a deep sense of calm and stillness, devoid of stress and anxiety, in a pure and complete space."
He further shared that in recent years, the practice of yoga has led to a growing sense of completeness, which carries over into morning meditations and it helps people shed stress and find inner peace in multiple ways, some of which are listed below:
1. Reduces Physical Tension: Yoga is the scientific combination of physical postures and breathing techniques that helps release physical tension in the body. As one moves through the various poses, and consciously focuses on breathing, this practice helps calm the mind and soothe the nervous system.
2. Improves Mental Clarity: It has been proven that practising yoga regularly helps individuals develop mental focus, concentration, and mindfulness. When you are more mindful, you are better able to manage stress and anxiety!
3. Enhances Body-Mind Connection: Yoga is a holistic practice that connects the body, mind, and spirit. The practice of yoga helps individuals develop an awareness and appreciation of their bodies and helps them understand how their thoughts and emotions affect their physical state.
4. Encourages Relaxation: The deep breathing and mindful movement of yoga encourage relaxation and promote the release of tension in the body. This helps offset the production of stress hormones in the body that can lead to chronic stress and other disorders.
5. Offers a Safe Space: Yoga provides a peaceful and nurturing environment for the self, which can help individuals feel safe and supported. This is particularly beneficial for people who are experiencing stress or anxiety.
Adding to this, Anshuka Parwani, who is a celebrity yoga expert and the founder of Anshuka Yoga shared how physical movement, breathing movements, mindfulness and meditation achieved while practicing yoga, reduces stress.
1. Physical movement: Practicing yoga involves specific physical movements that can help release physical tension and tightness in the body, which in turn can reduce stress and promote relaxation.
2. Breathing techniques: Yoga teaches various breathing techniques that can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Deep, slow breathing can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress.
3. Mindfulness: Yoga encourages mindfulness and being present in the moment.
4. Meditation: Yoga involves meditation, which can help calm the mind and reduce stress. Additionally, meditation also improves mood, increases self-awareness, and promotes a sense of inner peace.
5. Spiritual connection: Practicing yoga can create a sense of spiritual connection and purpose, which can lead to a greater sense of inner peace.
Lastly, Sukirti Midha, who is the founder of Sukh Yog Studio shared how our mindset becomes more balanced as we practice yoga.
She said, "Stress comes when you start comparing yourself with others. Some may be more lucky or blessed than you but yoga practice makes you think about those who have nothing at all. But you yourself are blessed to help others with kindness at least. Inner peace is nothing but a state of mind that you get with breathing practices & pranayama. Yam Niyam both help you to attain a perfect lifestyle where you get up & sleep on time."
Yoga can thus be an effective way to strike the balance between your mind, body, and soul. By combining physical movement, breathing techniques, mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual connection- yoga offers a holistic approach to stress relief and promoting overall well-being.