Yoga is undoubtedly starts as an individual pursuit. The practice is personal, and although we follow the same path, each person’s journey is ultimately unique.
Yet, even when practicing alone, there’s a pervading sense of connection to a wider community, united by a shared love of Yoga. The power of this connection is almost tangible in a group class, when your breath and movement is synchronised harmoniously with others around you, and there begins the sense of community within Yoga.
The desire to connect with others is a fundamental part of the human experience.
Whether we like it or not, we are hard-wired to crave and seek a sense of belonging.
This biological reassurance is the driving force behind the many roles and relationships in our lives, and the bonds we create with others undeniably accelerate growth and development.
Research has demonstrated that social support increases survival and longevity by some 50%. Holt-Lunstad and Smith’s meta-analysis of 148 studies found that not only is the risk of mortality from loneliness in the same category as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, but the benefits of community and interpersonal social networks are as important to physical health as beating obesity.
Community is clearly as nourishing for body and mind as yoga is itself, and the common ground doesn’t end there. Just like yoga, community is about connection and unity. Merge the two together and their power is amplified, allowing us to feel safe and supported in our journey, regardless of whether or not it’s a solo one.
In fact, it’s impossible to separate community and yoga; whether you’re practicing alone or in a hoard of hundreds, you are part of a worldwide network of likeminded and beautiful beings, whose connection transcends imagined boundaries of race, religion or nation.
This is one of the many incredible things about yoga; that something so personal can unite so many people.
After all, it is within others that we are able to most clearly see ourselves.
Without community, it’s easy to feel isolated and disengaged. But when we surround ourselves with like-minded and uplifting people, our shared experience builds strength and encourages growth.
The coming together of people of all cultures, backgrounds, shapes and sizes to find union in yoga ultimately has the power to influence a wave of positive change in communities across the world.
Even when we feel alone, this connection reminds us that we are always together, united as one.
Original article by Yogapedia