How does Yoga Heal the Soul?

Rossamund
2 min readApr 24, 2021

Our modern understanding of yoga is very far removed from the all-encompassing philosophy which used to be the basis of yogic practice, and our reduction of the art says a lot about the modern mindset. Traditional yoga is about much more than just improving your physique — it’s a transformative and transcendent art, which aims to aid people in their spiritual journey. However, even science is now coming to the understanding that yoga, if used correctly, really can be just as good for your mind and soul as it is for your body.

Yoga combats stress to ease your soul

In today’s busy world, it’s hard to escape stress. Whether it’s the constant ringing of your phone or pinging of devices, hectic traffic or just too many chores to fit into the day, stress can put us into ‘fight or flight’ mode unnecessarily. The body’s response to threat or danger is to speed the heart rate and release hormones such as adrenalin and cortisol.

The problem is, this system isn’t designed for over-use. If you react to anxiety in this way often, you deplete energy and increase your chance of health risks.

For example, your nervous system is responsible for putting the body into a ‘rest and digest’ cycle, whereby resources and energy are sent to help functions like digestion. When we react to something which has caused intense anxiety, these resources are taken away from primary physical functions and then sent to the muscles, because it appears to your nervous system as if you need to run away from a life-threatening predator!

Pranayama — breathing techniques — and flowing, meditative movement slow the heart rate, calm the mind and allow you to create space from repetitive thoughts that lead to undue stress. Over time, you become much more capable at naturally responding, from a clear perspective, to outwardly stressful situations

Yoga releases emotional blockages

Your body and mind are intrinsically connected, in that every thought you have registers a feeling in your body. If your thoughts often gravitate towards anxiety-producing negativity, stress or resentment, they can alter your nervous system and trigger physical illness, all while amplifying emotional pain.

With regular yoga practice, you release the build-up of emotional and physical toxins stored in the body. Stretching your muscles. While focusing on the breath, shifts trapped feelings and frees the flow of life-force, otherwise known as prana.

You’re able to draw on this vital energy to confidently deal with problems, instead of feeling victimised, tired, frustrated or depressed because of them.

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