J. Wilson – Bath

A: Yoga is a practice of unity, and its principles promote connection beyond the self. Karma Yoga (the yoga of selfless service) is a powerful way to strengthen your bond with others. Volunteer in your community or engage in acts of kindness, even as simple as offering a listening ear. Practicing Partner Yoga with a friend or loved one can also enhance trust and communication; try poses like Seated Forward Fold with a Partner, where you gently pull against each other for support. Group meditation or chanting sessions, whether in-person or online, develop a collective energy of love and compassion, reminding you of the strength in togetherness. These practices resonate deeply, especially as we move into a season of growth and renewal. Yoga reminds us that love, in all its forms flourishes when we nurture it with mindfulness and intention.

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M. Brown – Glasgow

A: Yoga offers tools for emotional balance by harmonizing body, breath, and mind. Practicing Mantras, such as the universal sound “Om,” helps center the mind and regulate emotions. Incorporate Pratyahara (sense withdrawal) by practicing a short 5-minute meditation where you focus only on your breath, letting go of external distractions. Heart-opening poses like Bridge Pose or Cobra Pose can release stored tension in the chest, which often holds emotional stress. Yoga encourages you to observe emotions without attachment, teaching resilience and emotional steadiness even during challenging times.

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K. P. Davis – Los Angeles

A: Yes, yoga can support weight loss by improving physical fitness, reducing stress, and encouraging mindful eating. Dynamic practices like Vinyasa Yoga, Infra-red Yoga or Power Yoga increase heart rate and burn calories. You can also try specific poses like Plank and Chair Pose to build strength and regulate appetite. To aid digestion, practice Kapala Bhati Pranayama (skull-shining breath) for 3-5 minutes daily. Additionally, yoga promotes self-awareness, which can reduce emotional eating. Pair your physical practice with mindfulness exercises, such as taking three deep breaths before meals, to tune into your body’s needs. Remember, yoga encourages sustainable changes rather than quick fixes, helping you develop a balanced relationship with your health.

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M. Johnson – Florida

A: Self-love is foundational in yoga, emphasising acceptance and honouring your inner self. A beautiful practice for self-love is Svadhyaya (self-study), where you reflect on your strengths and growth areas without judgment. Pair this with nurturing poses to create a safe, comforting space for yourself. Begin or end your practice by placing your hands over your heart, closing your eyes, and silently saying, “I am enough.” Yoga teaches that self-compassion is the first step toward radiating love to others.

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J. T. Smith – Manchester

A: Yoga teaches us to approach relationships with compassion and connection. One of its core principles is Ahimsa (non-violence), which means treating others with kindness in thought, word, and action. A practical way to practice this is through LovingKindness Meditation. A shorter extract of this meditation is to sit quietly, close your eyes, and silently repeat phrases like, “May you be happy, may you be healthy, may you live with ease,” while visualising someone you care about. To open your heart physically, practice chest-opening poses like Camel Pose or Fish Pose, which can help release emotional blockages and encourage vulnerability. Yoga reminds us that cultivating love for others starts with deep, intentional presence.

The post first appeared on Yoga Magazine.