The stereotypical image of a yogi is a placid, deeply relaxed person sitting in lotus pose contemplating life's mysteries - But here's a dirty little secret: many dedicated yogis are, in fact, inherently anxious. Because yoga is often seen as the antidote to stress and anxiety, it tends to attract those who feel a deep need to find calm and balance. Particularly In the fast-paced, overstimulated world of NYC, some of us (ahem - present company VERY much included) are drawn to yoga because it allows us to physically release the held tension, and offers an opportunity to slow down, breathe, and connect. For some, anxiety can manifest as perfectionism. - the drive to "perform" your yoga perfectly (If this is you - deep exhale - try not to do that :)! Because ultimately Yoga is less about DOING, and more about BEING. It’s a journey—sometimes lifelong—but many of us naturally anxious yogis find that the mat becomes a place to explore the ebbs and flows of our anxious minds, ultimately learning to accept, rather than resist, those feelings. In the spirit of Halloween, lets just lean into our (secret, spooky, scary) anxious feelings!
Asana is an incredible tool for facing anxiety and fears because it encourages presence and self-awareness in a way that few other practices do.
When you’re in a challenging yoga pose, you’re often confronted with discomfort or resistance, which is VERY much like the emotional discomforts of anxiety. The practice teaches you to breathe through that tension, stay with the sensation, and cultivate a sense of calm despite the challenge. This same approach applies off the mat. Whether it’s a difficult conversation or a nagging fear of the future, yoga gives you the tools to stay grounded in the present moment and regulate your emotional response. For each of us, Yoga is a literal practice in courage, teaching us to face both physical and emotional discomfort with grace and resilience.
Erica Barth
Owner, Harlem Yoga Studio
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