Yoga: A Lifelong Journey Towards Holistic Well-being

By Naveen Prabu

KUALA LUMPUR,  July 6 (Bernama) --  As the world commemorated International Yoga Day on June 21, the spotlight on yoga's profound impact on holistic well-being continues to resonate across the world.

Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswatiji, or simply known as Sadhviji, a renowned spiritual leader and motivational speaker based in Rishikesh, India, emphasises that yoga transcends its popular perception as mere physical exercise, offering a comprehensive science that integrates body, mind, and spirit.

 "In today's fast-paced world, where stress and anxiety are pervasive, yoga's practice of asanas releases physical tension, stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, promotes relaxation, and reduces stress hormones, complementing its eight-limbed path of ethical behaviour, breath control, meditation, and union with the divine,” she in an interview. 

Furthermore, Sadhviji, a graduate of Stanford University with a PhD in psychology, said techniques like pranayama (breath control) play a vital role in calming the mind and enhancing overall well-being.

"Controlled breathing techniques activate the parasympathetic nervous system, fostering deep calm and aiding in stress management," she said.

The integration of yoga into conventional healthcare and wellness programmes represents a significant and positive shift in the understanding of health and healing.

“This trend underscores what ancient sages have taught for thousands of years, which is that true well-being is holistic, encompassing not just the physical but also the mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions of health.

"Yoga, with its comprehensive system of practices, complements traditional medical treatments by addressing the root causes of many modern ailments, which are often linked to stress and lifestyle, and conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and chronic pain have been shown to improve with regular yoga practice,” she added.

Yoga's global spread is a testament to its universal appeal and profound benefits whereby it is adapted for diverse populations, hence this is why maintaining its authenticity is crucial.

“Not everything can be called yoga just because it’s done on a mat, as there is certainly a proliferation of practices being called ‘yoga’ that are, quite frankly, not yoga.

“The global proliferation of yoga must involve honouring the roots of yoga and ensuring that its teachings are conveyed with integrity and depth,” Sadhviji said.  

Yoga, as a science of alignment, balance and union, is inclusive.  There is nothing in the yogic practices or principles that requires one to believe in a certain way, worship a certain way, look a certain way. Yoga is, by its very nature, applicable and accessible for all.

Hailing from Los Angeles, Sadhviji has been honoured with numerous national and international awards for her work in water, sanitation, hygiene, and women’s empowerment, including recognition from the Indian Cabinet Minister of Water Resources and the US Ambassador to India.

She was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by US president Joe Biden for her lifelong commitment to volunteer service.

--  BERNAMA