One simple Google search will give you a lot of information on the advantages of mindfulness and yoga. But what happens when we blend these two together?
Mindfulness is a practice that can be incorporated into any part of the day, even when you’re doing yoga. By paying attention to your breathing, what you’re doing, and how you’re feeling, you can keep your mind from wandering off and transform your yoga practice into a mindful one.
The definition of mindfulness
Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of your body, mind, and feelings in the present moment to create a sense of calm and peace.
“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; on purpose, in the present moment, and non-judgementally.” – Jon Kabat-Zinn
Simplified, mindfulness is about being fully present and aware of where you are and what you’re doing. We all can be mindful; it’s not something you have to evoke; you just have to learn how to access it.
When you give purposeful attention to what is happening in the moment, without judgment, that’s when your awareness arises.
The definition of yoga
Yoga originated in ancient India as a physical, mental, and spiritual practice. It’s a mind-body practice that combines physical poses, controlled breathing, and relaxation to promote mental and physical well-being. The word ‘yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit root Yuj, which means ‘to yoke’ or ‘to unite.’
But Yoga is more than just the practical aspect. It’s an art and philosophy bringing harmony between your mind and body. There are many different types of yoga and disciplines within the practice.
What is mindful yoga?
Mindful yoga is a fairly new form of yoga. It blends traditional Buddhist mindfulness teachings with the physical practice of yoga.
It’s about using your breath and bodily sensations as an anchor in the present moment, allowing you to get an even deeper insight into your mind and come back to your body.
The most significant difference between mindful yoga and other yoga practices is that the focus is on mind-body awareness instead of the unique alignment and physical posture.
“Only in the present moment, in the here and now, can you truly live.”
The emphasis lies in observing your mind and feelings while performing the yoga pose. It requires you to be fully observant of every movement. Mindful yoga is, in fact, a type of meditation as beneficial as a seated meditation.
5 benefits of mindful yoga
Here are some of the most significant benefits of practicing mindful yoga and its effects on our lives:
1. A more profound sense of self-awareness
Self-awareness is the key to understanding our senses, especially habitual reactivity patterns. A deep sense of awareness of your body and mind is the best way to shift away from a particular characteristic and into a better lifestyle. The practice of mindful yoga helps you understand your existence.
2. Helps to face day-to-day problems
Through mindful yoga, you learn patience and calmness, which are crucial for dealing with tough days in life. An increased sense of patience and calmness helps you navigate your problems more easily.
3. Enhances compassion and empathy for yourself and others
Being kind and empathetic towards oneself and others is crucial to a healthier life. Mindful yoga aims to support the heart chakra related to giving and receiving love. The practice helps you to open your heart emotionally so you can connect with people with a higher sense of compassion and kindness.
4. A heightened sense of acceptance
Acceptance is incredibly important in our day-to-day life. Through mindful yoga, we learn how to let things go and accept situations as they are.
Mindful yoga can help you cope with negative emotions such as anxiety and stress. When you settle into a calm and accepting attitude that no longer fights against negative emotions, your experience will become less of a struggle.
5. Improves your regular practice
As you awaken your conscious mind through mindful yoga, you’ll notice an enhancement in your routine.
By bringing mindfulness to your practice, you focus on whatever you are doing at that moment, thus transforming the movement into a form of meditation. Instead of mere physical activity, you start to find more meaning in your exercises.
How to practice mindful yoga
One of the best ways is through audio-only yoga classes. These classes are designed for you to focus solely on yourself, your breath, and your movement. No comparison, no distraction looking at your screen, just you and your yoga practice.
Mindful yoga is one of my favorite practices and the reason why I designed my online yoga classes on YouTube to be audio-only (there’s still a video in case you get lost or my instructions are unclear). This means you can flow through your yoga practice and deeply connect with yourself by just following my voice. Check out my YouTube channel, Mind Yoga Soul and start practicing mindful yoga for your soul.
Overall, mindful yoga gives your body a higher sense of consciousness and a meaningful way to find your inner self.
