You Don’t Choose Yoga, It Chooses You.

“Yoga allows you to find a new kind of freedom that you may not have known even existed.” · B.K.S. Iyengar.

In the realm of spiritual practices, there exists a notion that resonates deeply with many practitioners. “You don’t choose yoga, Yoga chooses you.” It’s a sentiment that encapsulates the profound and often transformative journey when one encounter’s yoga in their lives.

Yoga, with its ancient origins is more than just a physical exercise routine or a series of poses. It is a blend of working out and working in. It is a holistic system encompassing physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), meditation, ethical principles, and self-awareness. Yet, despite its widespread popularity and accessibility in modern times, not everyone feels drawn to yoga.

For those who do find themselves on the path of yoga, there is often a sense of inevitability. This notion aligns with the concept of karma, the idea that our actions in past lives or in the present influence our circumstances and experiences. It’s believed that one’s karma lead to the encounter with yoga. Whether through a chance recommendation, a curiosity sparked by a book, or a deep inner longing for spiritual connection.

The Yoga Sutras is best known for its reference to ashtanga, eight elements of practice. The eight elements are yama (abstinences), niyama (observances), asana (yoga posture), pranayama (breath control), pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses), dharana (concentration of the mind), dhyana (meditation) and samadhi (absorption).

In this context, yoga becomes something that happens to you rather than something you consciously seek out. It’s as though the universe, recognizing a readiness within an individual, gently nudges them toward the practice. Opening doors and opportunities for exploration and growth.

Moreover, the essence of yoga extends far beyond the confines of a yoga mat or studio. While the physical postures and breathing techniques are important aspects of the practice, real yoga happens off the mat—in the way we interact with others, in our ability to cultivate inner peace amidst life’s challenges, and in our capacity to live with greater awareness and authenticity.

Through yoga, individuals may discover profound insights about themselves and their place in the world. They may uncover layers of conditioning and habitual patterns that no longer serve them, and through disciplined practice, they can begin to unravel these layers and reconnect with their true essence.

Ultimately, whether one finds themselves drawn to yoga or not, the journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth is deeply personal and unique to each individual. Yet for those who resonate with the notion that “Yoga chooses you,” there is a sense of surrender and trust in the unfolding of life’s journey—a recognition that there are forces at play beyond our comprehension, guiding us toward greater wholeness, harmony, and union with the universe.