One of the main goals of yoga is to calm down the mind, to feel an inner peace and simplicity. It is only when the mental flurry settles down that we can achieve clarity in our thoughts. Otherwise, we are weighed down with constant doubt, worry and agitation.
Yoga is meant to be an inward journey, where we can stay in touch with sense of fulfillment, cultivate positive thoughts and feel joyful emotions. It is also supposed to be a journey each individual takes by themselves in a private and supportive setting. If we are so used to practicing yoga only in class settings, it becomes much harder to focus on our inward journey. Our natural response is to look outside, to compare and compete with others in the class. Comparing our lives with others not only takes us away from our inner sense of peace but also brings us sorrow as we condition our mind to focus on things that are lacking in our own life and things that we want. Instead, it is paramount to bring the mind back to a sense of gratitude for what we have and from that sprouts an intrinsic sense of fulfillment.
Have a Peaceful Mind & Happiness are the Benefits of Yoga for Health
Here are 3 main indicators of Happiness that yoga helps to address
Health and energy levels
Without a doubt, practicing yoga helps improve your overall health, body’s functioning and increase energy level by a combination of postures and breathing exercises
Quality of personal relationships
Feelings of empathy, forgiveness and compassion are all cultivated during meditation. These feelings are first taught to be directed to oneself by respecting the body and treating with tenderness rather than force
Leisure activities
Practicing yoga can bring deep joy. Yoga brings an attitude of curious exploration, we access muscles that we have never felt before and we see our thoughts from distances we have never recognized. Yoga brings an awareness and appreciation, holidays do the same for us but passing time in front of the TV decreases our sense of satisfaction as it dulls down our faculty of awareness and appreciation.
Many of us believe that money is the answer to our problems, and if we were rich we would be happy. However, happiness is not proportional to wealth. Once a luxurious lifestyle is attained, people develop insecurities for the fear of not being able to maintain a certain social stature. Despite the improvement in material conditions, depression is now 10 times higher than in 1960 and is affecting younger members of society. How can we be happier? Give, give, give!
According to famous psychologist, Martin Seligman, a connection with others promotes happiness. When we give our time, love and help to others we feel we are more connected with society, we feel bigger that just me and myself and extend our contribution to a much wider scope. Volunteering and other altruistic activities are the basis of bringing meaningfulness into our lives as we attach ourselves to a bigger cause, promoting human values such as charity, generosity and openness.
