Yoga and Sustainability: Cultivating Inner Peace and a Healthy Planet

Yoga & Sustainability

Yoga, an ancient practice, infuses the art of observance in us. Through it, we connect with nature on a deeper level. We begin to value nature’s gifts like fresh air, pure water and even the warmth of the sun. This promotes a life filled with gratitude which develops our physical and mental health. We become a blessing to our environment in many ways. Let us discuss a few of these sustainable practices that empower us to cultivate inner peace while caring for our planet.

The Yoga Philosophy and Environmental Stewardship
The main principles of yoga, encapsulated in the Yamas (ethical restraints) and Niyamas (ethical observances), and sustainability converge into a beautiful destination. Aparigraha philosophy aligns beautifully with eco-friendliness by consuming less and valuing what you already have, you reduce your environmental footprint.  Asteya, non-stealing, extends beyond material possessions to respecting the Earth’s resources.

Sustainable Yoga Studios: Leading by Example
More and more yoga studios are rolling out the green welcome mat! Here are some ways studios are leading the charge:

• Energy Efficiency: By shifting to LED lighting and solar panels the studios have reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Using fresh air from outside through ventilation has lowered energy consumption and the associated environmental impact.
• Eco-Conscious Cleaning Products: Harsh chemicals in traditional cleaners that often end up in waterways when flushed down the drain are being replaced by natural cleaning solutions.
• Water Conservation: Installing low-flow faucets and mindful water usage is a small change that makes a great impact.
• Sustainable Materials: The studios are being decked up with flooring, props, and furniture made of recycled or biomaterials.
• Community Engagement: Yogis get together or partner with local organizations for green acts such as beach cleanups or tree planting initiatives.

Finding Your Eco-Friendly Yoga Mat
The yoga mat defines your personal space during practice, ensure that it is an environmentally friendly one. Some organic options are:

• Natural Rubber Mats: They are made from the sap of rubber trees and are biodegradable. They provide excellent traction, for maintaining stability during yoga poses. FSC certification of mats is like a thumbs-up from the forest itself. Be a responsible consumer and pick furniture with a conscience.
• Cork Mats: It’s eco-friendly, fights odours naturally, and support a greener yoga practice.
• Recycled Plastic Mats: These are made from recycled plastic waste. They are kind to the planet, and work as well as any regular mat.

Living a Sustainable Life Beyond the Asana
The environment is deeply related to Yoga as more than the fancy studios, asanas and yoga mats, the air we breathe and what we eat decide the outcome of yoga.  We should try to integrate green habits into our daily routine:

• Mindful Consumption: Practice mindful shopping, buy high-quality, durable items, and repair or repurpose old clothing and belongings.
• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Implement the 3 Rs in your daily life – reduce waste, reuse what you can, and recycle when necessary.
• Transportation Choices: Walk, cycle, or use public transport whenever possible to minimize your carbon footprint.
• Plant-Based Meals: Reducing your meat consumption can significantly lower your environmental impact. Try the delicious world of sattvic food, that fills you but does not let you feel bloated.
• Support Sustainable Businesses: Seek out local, eco-conscious brands that prioritize sustainability in their practices.

Remember, every small step counts.  Switch to green habits, become healthier you building up a cleaner earth.

The Yoga Mat is Just the Beginning
Yoga is more than mastering challenging poses or achieving peak flexibility. It connects us with our environment. By turning to sustainable practices both on and off the mat, we can extend our yoga journey beyond the physical and become responsible global citizens. Each mindful breath and intentional movement become an opportunity to nurture inner peace while honouring the planet that sustains us.

Ready to embark on this path? Here are some resources to guide you…::

• Green Yoga Association: https://mettaearth.org/metta-earth-institute-2/green-yoga/
• Eco-Yoga: https://lcyoga.com/workshops-1
• Yoga Journal – Sustainable Yoga: https://www.yogajournal.com/lifestyle/fashion-beauty/yoga-clothing/

Prema Nagesh, the founder of VYANITI Yoga with over twenty-five years of yoga wisdom has brought this ancient practice to Oman with a twist. She’s passionate about creating a sustainable yoga experience. At VYANITI, you’ll learn more than just perfect poses. You will discover how to connect to the environment and make a positive impact. Visit vyanitiyoga.com. or Contact +968 96526103 to roll out your mat with Prema Nagesh and become a mindful yogi who cares about the world we live in!