In today’s fast-paced world, and especially with my constant travel for work and not having a proper base, finding peace was often hard to find. For many years, I struggled to connect with myself and my body, feeling disconnected and constantly battling stress and self-doubt. However, my journey took a transformative turn when I discovered the profound impact of yoga.
Building a connection with my body
Before yoga, my relationship with my body was fraught with dissatisfaction. I often focused on its perceived imperfections rather than appreciating its strength and resilience. I went to the gym A LOT and turned into a ‘Cardio Bunny’. It was so exhausting, mentally as well as physically!
Yoga taught me to view my body through a lens of gratitude and respect. Each pose became an opportunity to honour my body’s capabilities, and each practice, a celebration of its progress and I learnt to work with my body rather than against it.
Through consistent practice, I started noticing subtle changes. My body became more flexible and strong, but more importantly, I began to feel a profound sense of connection and peace within myself. The practice of listening to my body’s needs and responding with kindness replaced the harsh criticisms I had once held.
Cultivating Inner Peace
Yoga is much more than a physical exercise; it’s a holistic practice that intertwines mind, body, and spirit. The meditative aspects of yoga, especially pranayama (breath control) and the final pose savasana (corpse pose), helped me cultivate a state of inner calm. These moments of stillness and deep breathing allowed me to quiet the constant chatter of my mind and find contentment in the present moment.
With each session, I learned to release stress and anxiety, finding a sense of balance that extended beyond the mat. Yoga taught me the importance of being present, of appreciating the here and now, rather than being caught up in past regrets or future worries. We all have negative thoughts of course, but it is important to not fight them and try and blend them out but rather acknowledge them and realize that it is just a thought, it will pass.
A Continuous Journey
My journey with yoga is ongoing, and each day brings new discoveries and challenges. It has been a powerful tool in helping me find peace with myself and my body. The lessons I’ve learned on the mat—self-acceptance, mindfulness, and gratitude—have permeated every aspect of my life, making me a calmer, more centered person.
Yoga has shown me that peace is not something to be sought externally but cultivated within. It has become a guiding light, illuminating the path to self-discovery and inner harmony. For anyone feeling disconnected or overwhelmed, I wholeheartedly recommend giving yoga a try. It might just be the key to unlocking the peace and balance you’ve been searching for.
Love,
Munja
