Yoga and Compassion
“Only the development of compassion and understanding for others can bring us the tranquillity and happiness we all seek.” The Dalai Lama
Developing compassion is easy to do and brings so many benefits to ourselves and all those around us.
Compassion is sincere, genuine and selfless.
When we increase feelings of compassion towards ourselves and others we are less critical and more accepting, we become kinder and more caring towards ourselves and others.
Compassion helps to maintain a clear mind free from guilt or regret, it helps us sleep peacefully, it removes negative obstacles, brings a sense of contentment and provides guidance.
Increasing compassion helps to eliminate negative thoughts and emotions making life more joyful. As positive emotions and feelings occupy our thoughts there is less room for negative emotions such as anger, greed, hatred or jealousy.
Practicing compassion also activates the areas of the brain responsible for healing and calmness.
Scientific studies suggest that people who practice compassion produce 100% more DHEA, a hormone that counteracts the ageing process, and 23% less cortisol — the “stress hormone”.
Yoga by its very nature encourages us to become more compassionate and increases our awareness towards ourselves and others.
Yoga also provides us with a suitable time and space to focus on compassion and successfully develop and cultivate it.
"In order to have compassion for others, we have to have compassion for ourselves.” Unknown
“Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them humanity cannot survive.” The Dalai Lama
This blog article was written by Sue Fuller creator of the Yoga 2 Hear range of audio yoga classes and yoga teacher training courses.
