Why Practice Yoga?
History and Origins
Yoga is an ancient practice rooted back to Indian philosophy. It includes physical poses and postures as well as spiritual principles and traditions. The physical component of yoga is called asana. It’s very important to understand that asana is just one piece of yoga. There are eight limbs of yoga including: Yamas (regulations or restraints), Nyamas (personal observances), Asana (meditative posture), Pranayama (breath control), Pratyahara (sense withdrawal), Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditation), and Samadhi (absorption). There is so much history and information to share about yoga! It is paramount that we honor the origins and philosophies behind yoga. It’s something that has become commercialized and we must be mindful of cultural appropriation. Cultural appropriation is when a dominant culture takes from another culture without full regard for the context, respect, or even acknowledgment of the culture. I know that moving forward in my personal practice, I vow to honor and be respectful of the authenticity and origins of yoga!
Research and Benefits
There are countless benefits of including yoga as a regular practice. Yoga improves strength, balance and flexibility, relieves back pain relief, can ease arthritis symptoms, improves heart health, improves sleep, helps with stress management, and promotes better self-care. According to an article written in the Journal of the Association of Physicians of India, “Yoga brings balance to the physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions of an individual. It is a highly promising, safe, noninvasive, feasible, and affordable practice applicable at individual and community levels. Considering the health benefits of yoga and its safety and affordability, the intensification of the collaboration of yoga in modern medicine is a high priority.” (Santra, 2022) The list goes on. Practicing yoga can have a profound effect on physical, mental, and spiritual health!
My Personal Experience
My journey with yoga began when a training popped up on Facebook about becoming certified as a Social Emotional Learning Facilitator and Yoga Instructor. I had dabbled in yoga, but never had practiced it regularly. I initially was interested in this opportunity to learn about how to better support the social emotional development of children. Social Emotional Development has always been a passion of mine. During my experience in the school system as a classroom teacher and school counselor, having the privilege to serve so many different students, the most invaluable thing I learned is that if kids don’t have the social emotional piece, it is very difficult for them to thrive academically. For example, when kids have anxiety with little or no support, it’s nearly impossible for them to learn. Brains cannot function in "fight or flight." A child lacking in cooperation and social skills is also likely to face challenges in the classroom. Or let's say, that student who doesn’t have the tools to regulate their emotions --is very likely to struggle in the classroom environment. All of these examples are my “WHY” for wanting to prioritize the social emotional development of children before anything else. Yoga has been known to improve focus, help with sensory processing, as well as emotional regulation.
When I made the decision to pursue the adventure of learning about yoga, I knew I could share what I learned to support kids' social emotional welfare. I didn’t anticipate the significance it would play in my own life! Today, yoga is a part of my regular routine. Yoga and its principles brought more balance, harmony, and presence into my life. I'm thrilled to share the gift of yoga with others who are interested in improving their own well-being. If you’re interested in learning more about our upcoming inclusive yoga classes and meditation sessions, contact us at calmmindsconsulting.com. All classes are inclusive and accessible to everyone and no experience is necessary. I hope to see you soon. Namaste!
References
9 benefits of yoga. 9 Benefits of Yoga | Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021, August 8). Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/9-benefits-of-yoga
Santra, G. (n.d.). Yoga and the need of its integration in modern medicine. Retrieved March 16, 2023, from https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Gouranga_Santra/publication/365946242_Yoga_and_the_need_of_its_integration_in_modern_Medicine/links/6389d4617d9b40514e0ae033/Yoga-and-the-need-of-its-integration-in-mod
