Yoga as a Means of Rejuvenation
On the days I wake up earlier and meditate, I’m amazed by how energized I feel throughout the day. Yoga has the power to transform my energy from sluggish and heavy to uplifted and calm. This is in stark contrast to taking a nap, which often leaves me feeling like I need even more sleep.
Sleep is undeniably important. It gives the body a chance to rebuild energy and allows the brain to process the day’s experiences. As Chaput and colleagues noted in a 2018 sleep study, “A generally valid assumption is that individuals obtain the right amount of sleep if they wake up feeling well-rested and perform well during the day.” Yet, there was a time when I would fall asleep by 9 PM, sleep for 12 to 14 hours, and still wake up exhausted. I needed more than just rest—I needed rejuvenation.
In my thirties, I constantly pushed myself, living in a state of chronic stress. I worked harder than the students I was teaching, believing that hard work gave me a sense of control and purpose. But I had no idea that this relentless effort was depleting my body. Along with constant fatigue, I struggled with digestive issues and uncontrollable eczema.
In our fast-paced world, stress and fatigue often feel like inevitable companions. We’re led to believe that staying busy and eating on the run are just part of life. Society values productivity, promising that we can unwind later—either in the evening or on weekends. We might try to rest by watching TV, where our minds stay active, or by having a big meal and drinks with friends, which keeps our bodies working to digest and detoxify.
These forms of rest might help us cope and provide moments of joy, but they only address the symptoms on the surface. Most importantly, they don’t truly replenish our energy.
True rejuvenation requires a holistic approach that nurtures physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Yoga offers a pathway to this deeper renewal, helping us lead healthier, more balanced lives. In a 2018 study, Tolahunase reported that yoga significantly reduced the rate of cellular aging in apparently healthy populations. It’s a practice that integrates our experiences, teaching us to tune into what’s really going on within us. Yoga is about restoring balance, enhancing vitality, and achieving a state of inner harmony.
Through yoga, you can awaken dormant energy and calm excessive outward energy, allowing your life force to flow freely. More importantly, you learn how to avoid unnecessarily wasting your energy. Yoga practices calm the nervous system, reduce stress hormones, and enhance oxygenation of the brain. This leads to improved concentration, mental clarity, and a balanced emotional state. Yoga nurtures a deeper connection with your inner self, encouraging mindfulness—a state of being fully present in the moment, fostering gratitude and contentment.
Yoga doesn’t just offer rest; it brings about a profound sense of rejuvenation that revitalizes you and helps maintain optimal health. So, take a deep breath, and embark on a journey to a healthier, more vibrant you. If you need any support on your health journey, I’m here to help.
