Yoga Beyond the Mat
Originating in ancient India, Yoga has made its way into modern life for those of us seeking exercise, calming of the nervous system, and connecting deeper with our inner light of awareness. The physical aspects of yoga tend to be more widely understood, but the entire practice of yoga extends out over 8 limbs! Poses, or asana, are just 1 of those limbs. The other 7 include ethical practices, breathwork, meditation, and more. Practicing yoga mindfully can lend a hand in creating more balanced and less stressful living.
From a Science News Today article, “Perhaps yoga’s most unique contribution to health lies in its effects on the nervous system. While exercise is known to release endorphins that lift mood, yoga goes further by directly regulating the autonomic nervous system, which governs stress responses.” (ScienceNewsToday, 2025)
Yoga is not just about strengthening the body, healing from injuries, or increasing flexibility, although these are great benefits! Yoga gives us the opportunity to slow down, breathe, think with intention, and take care of our mind and body simultaneously. When we practice yoga, we’re often guided to arrive on our mat and bring our awareness to the support of the earth and begin to notice our breath. Here, we have something we don’t often take the time for in our busy lives: presence. Being present and aware of the way our body feels, the way our breath feels, and the thoughts cycling through our minds can ground us into our bodies and regulate the nervous system.
The practice of being mindful of our experiences can support improved distress tolerance, more conscious thinking and acting, and better emotional regulation skills. This means that we can practice yoga anywhere, even when we’re not on our mat moving our bodies! Washing the dishes, driving to and from work, or talking to a friend are all great opportunities to tap into mindful living. You can pay attention to the sensations and smells of the soapy dish water, carefully notice your surroundings while driving or feel the steering wheel in your hands, and avoid distractions while listening to a friend share about her day and respond thoughtfully without changing the subject. This is yoga too!
Interested in experiencing the benefits of yoga for yourself? Peace By Proxy Yoga offers private one-on-one sessions, small group classes, and workplace wellness programs designed to meet you where you are.
To read more about the mental and physical health benefits of yoga, click the link below.
Yoga for Physical and Mental Health: A Scientific Approach
Ashley Cory | Peace By Proxy Yoga | 6-17-2026