Embracing Workplace Yoga for International Yoga Day

Wish all of you a very happy International Yoga Day. Over the years, we have provided an international platform for the practice of yoga, showcasing the immense value it holds. Today, it is important to recognize that yoga is not merely about physical exercise. The true goal of this day should be to integrate yoga into our daily lives. Let this day serve as an inspiration for incorporating these practices seamlessly into our routines.

Yoga is not just a science of physical well-being; it encompasses various aspects of our holistic well-being. While the physical aspect is undoubtedly important, imagine having immense wealth in your bank account but suffering from arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. True success lies in nurturing our bodies and making them healthy. This forms the foundational aspect of yoga.

Moving beyond the physical, yoga also involves the vital force of breath. Just think about it for a moment: we can survive for days without food, water, or sleep, but without breath, life ceases to exist. Every breath we take provides us with energy and dynamism. It is fascinating to note that on average, we take about 24,000 breaths per day, amounting to approximately 10,000 litres of air. This shows the profound impact of something as natural as breathing. It nourishes our body and mind, relieving stress and allowing us to thrive in the face of challenges.

The third aspect of yoga pertains to our intellect, our ability to think and reason. How often do we doubt our own goodness and the goodness of others? It is remarkable that our intellect tends to cast doubt and suspicion on acts of love and kindness, questioning their authenticity. If someone were to express their admiration or love towards us, we often find it difficult to believe.

The intellect, when untrained, tends to foster negative relationships and self-doubt. However, when integrated into the practice of yoga, the intellect gains clarity, allowing us to develop intuitive abilities and make wise decisions. It empowers us to grow as individuals, fostering healthy relationships and a positive outlook on life.

Memory, the fourth aspect of yoga, plays a significant role in our well-being. Have you noticed how easily we remember negative experiences or criticism compared to positive compliments? Our memory has a tendency to cling to negativity, amplifying its impact on us. Yoga helps us release trauma and cultivates a selective memory that focuses on the positive aspects of our lives. By training our minds, we can create a memory that serves us well, fostering joy, peace and contentment.

Another essential aspect of yoga is the understanding of our true self. How do we identify ourselves? If we identify our weaknesses, we limit our growth and potential. On the other hand, when we identify our strengths, we can focus on cultivating them further. Yoga aids in self-discovery, revealing our innate nature, which is joyful, peaceful and calm.

Just observe a child and their natural expression of these qualities. As we grow older, stress and conditioning cloud our naturalness. However, through yoga, we have the opportunity to rediscover our authentic selves and reconnect with the qualities that bring us true happiness.

Yoga is not limited to physical postures (asanas) or breathing techniques (pranayama). It encompasses a comprehensive system known as the eight limbs of yoga. Each limb holds its own significance and contributes to our overall well-being.

While doing the Yoga asanas, always find a comfortable position and become aware of any stiffness in your body. Start with gentle movements that release tension and create a sense of relaxation. Pay attention to your breath as you move, and you will experience a deeper sense of comfort. Focus on relaxing and rejuvenating the eyes, which often bear the strain of our modern lifestyles. Blink consciously, squeeze and release your eyes, and allow them to relax.

Remember, as we embark on this yoga session, it is not just about the physical movements or the techniques; it is about cultivating a positive mindset and integrating yoga into every aspect of our lives. So, let's dive into this practice with a smile, amplifying the benefits and embracing the transformative power of yoga.