In conversation with the talented Dyuti Singh.
What are the few misconceptions most people in our country have about yoga?
The biggest misconception about yoga is that it belongs to a certain religion or spirituality, perhaps due to the recital of mantras. At the time yoga originated, Sanskrit was the language of communication, and most mantras have a deep meaning related to world peace. You can practise your religion and still be a yogi. Yoga is a way of life, practise it without prejudices to enhance your physical and mental well-being. The second misconception is that you need to be a certain age or be physically fit to do yoga, but yoga is for everyone. Another misconception is about what you need to wear to do yoga. You simply need comfortable and breathable clothes and a sturdy soft surface.
Yoga connects the body to the mind like no other sport. Each posture has a meaning and also reflects a mental attitude. How does yoga affect our mental health?
Yoga has many aspects, such as asanas that improve strength, endurance and flexibility. But the most unique part of Yoga is Pranayama, a set of breathwork techniques to control mental well-being. Through breathwork, one can control one’s mind and subsequently the body’s response. Top sprinters, divers, and football players are increasingly using Yoga to beat stress which is the side-effect of competitive sports. The increased oxygen supply through controlled breathing calms the nerves and brings mental clarity.
