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Writer's pictureMathilde | Samatva Therapies

yoga & samatva: what is it?

Welcome to this first article. In here I wanted to talk about yoga and samatva as they are the key elements of my practice and my offerings.


Yoga is a practice that has been around for thousands of years, originating in ancient India. It involves a combination of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation, all of which can have significant benefits for both the body and the mind. 'Samatva' is a Sanskrit word that is commonly used in the practice of yoga and meditation. It is derived from the root word 'sama', which means 'equal' or 'even'.


'Samatva' refers to a state of equanimity or balance, where the mind is free from fluctuations and remains steady and calm, regardless of external circumstances.In the context of yoga and meditation, 'samatva' is seen as a state of consciousness that is characterized by a sense of inner peace, contentment, and harmony. It is a state where the mind is no longer subject to the ups and downs of life, but remains centered and balanced in the present moment. In the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, 'samatva' is one of the eight limbs of yoga, and is described as a state of balance between the body, mind, and spirit. It is considered to be an essential component of the path to self-realization and enlightenment.


One of the most notable benefits of yoga is its ability to promote mental calmness and reduce stress and anxiety. In this article, we will explore the ways in which yoga can help to cultivate a sense of mental calmness and wellbeing.


Physical Benefits of Yoga

Before we delve into the mental benefits of yoga, it's worth noting that there are numerous physical benefits to the practice as well. Yoga can help to improve flexibility, strength, balance, and overall physical fitness. It has also been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in the body, which can help to alleviate conditions like arthritis and chronic back pain. By improving physical health, yoga can have a positive impact on mental health as well.


Breathing Techniques in Yoga

One of the key components of yoga is the use of breathing techniques. In yoga, breath is seen as the link between the mind and the body, and by controlling the breath, we can also control our thoughts and emotions. By practicing specific breathing techniques, we can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the body's "rest and digest" response. This can help to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and promote feelings of relaxation and calmness.


Meditation in Yoga

Another important aspect of yoga is meditation. Meditation involves focusing the mind on a particular object or sensation, such as the breath or a mantra. By practicing meditation, we can learn to quiet the mind and cultivate a sense of inner peace and stillness. Meditation has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, improving concentration and focus, and promoting feelings of wellbeing.




Yoga Postures and Mental Calmness

Finally, the physical postures practiced in yoga can also help to promote mental calmness. By practicing yoga postures, we can release tension and stress in the body, which can have a calming effect on the mind. Certain postures, such as forward folds and inversions, have been shown to have a particularly calming effect on the nervous system. Additionally, the focus required to maintain balance and alignment in yoga postures can help to quiet the mind and promote mindfulness.


In conclusion, yoga is a practice that offers numerous benefits for both the body and the mind. By incorporating breathing techniques, meditation, and physical postures into our daily routine, we can cultivate a sense of mental calmness and wellbeing. Whether you're dealing with stress and anxiety or simply looking to improve your overall mental health, yoga can be a powerful tool to help you find greater peace and balance in your life.


Thank you for taking the time to read this article.

Namaste






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