The ancient practice of yoga has been around for an estimated 5,000 years. In our modern world, you may associate yoga with exercise or going to the gym. However, it’s important to remember that yoga is equally about the mind as it is about the body.
In fact, the name itself ‘yoga’ translates to ‘unite’, signifying the coming together of the mind and body in perfect harmony.
We have previously discussed the role that exercise plays in our mental health – but in honour of the International Day of Yoga, we wanted to dive deeper into the practice of yoga and learn more about its specific benefits for our mental health and wellbeing.
To help us do just that, we’ve interviewed Reiki and EFT practitioner, Angela Dobric.
About Angela Dobric
Angela Dobric is a former Primary Deputy Headteacher now specialising in fun, interactive kids’ yoga sessions aimed at building physical and mental strength and flexibility.
She’s also passionate about supporting adults who care for and teach children and young people. So in addition to her work with children, she also offers gentle adult yoga classes for adults; helping them practise “filling their own cups first” before giving to the people they care for and about.
An Interview With Angela Dobric
Tell us a bit more about who you are and what you do
“I have a Trauma Awareness Diploma, plus extensive experience working one-to-one with children and young adults, including many with SEND, using yoga and other holistic therapies to support physical health, emotional wellbeing and mental health. I am a Reiki and EFT practitioner who strongly believes in the power of building a mental health and wellbeing toolkit to support children, young people and adults through the journey of life with all its adventures and challenges.”
“Although I have a particular focus on yoga and mental health for pupils and staff in schools, I also run classes and workshops for adults and children in Knutsford, Hale, Altrincham, Northwich and Lymm. I offer small group sessions, private one-to-one sessions and bespoke in-house corporate sessions, too.”
What are the benefits of yoga?
“Yoga comes with a long list of proven physical and mental wellbeing benefits: physically, it can improve flexibility, strength and posture, while benefitting cardiovascular health; mentally, it promotes relaxation and can help to alleviate stress; emotionally, it can assist in regulating the nervous system and enhancing emotional resilience.”
“Regular yoga practice can tone muscles and enhance flexibility; this can help to alleviate chronic pain and reduce risk of injury. As yoga incorporates weight-bearing poses, it can build muscle strength which is crucial for overall body support in people of all ages.”
“Yoga has a significant positive impact on mental health. It promotes relaxation and reduces stress through deep breathing and meditation techniques which can lower cortisol levels in the body. Even more, it can improve sleep and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.”
“Attending a yoga class can foster a sense of community and belonging where individuals can connect in a shared experience. My classes always incorporate energising breathwork, accessible yoga postures and deep relaxation / guided meditation. We breathe to centre ourselves, we move our bodies through yoga postures before we rest relax and restore by calming our minds through meditation at the end of the session. The result? Calmer, happier, more resilient children and adults.”
Why is yoga important for our wellbeing?
“Yoga emphasises the mind-body connection. With its holistic focus, it supports physical health, fosters mental clarity and nurtures emotional resilience, contributing to a more balanced life. It promotes not just physical fitness, but also mental wellbeing and emotional balance, creating a foundation for overall health in body, mind and soul.”
“By integrating physical postures, breathing exercises and meditation, yoga provides a versatile and accessible way to enhance life quality for people of all ages.”
“Yoga helps us to take our focus inwards, reminding us to breathe deeply and to be present in the moment. It offers a chance to step away from the stresses and busy-ness of daily life, allowing us an opportunity to pause, reflect and re-set.”
What advice would you give to someone who has never done yoga before and is curious to start?
“Just do it! As the saying goes, “It’s not about being able to touch your toes, it’s about what you learn on the way down!” I always remind people that if you have a body, then you have a yoga body, so just start.”
“There are so many classes, styles and teachers out there it can be overwhelming. Look for a class which is described as “for beginners”, “gentle” or “restorative,” so that you get a feel for the basic poses. Or try an online class from the comfort of your own home. Sample sessions with a few different teachers to see who you feel most connected to and supported by.”
“You don’t need lots of fancy gear to get started: just a yoga mat, some comfortable clothes and a smile. Focus on your breath: practice deep, mindful breathing to help you stay present and calm.”
“Listen to your body and do what feels good for you. Relax, enjoy and have fun … embrace the journey and go with the flow. Yoga is about so much more than being “bendy” – allow it to nurture your body, calm your mind and feed your soul. You’ll be a yogi in no time!”
Where can we find out more about you?
My website is launching soon at www.geniusyoga.co.uk. You can also reach out to me via email at angela@geniusyoga.co.uk or give me a follow on Facebook and Instagram!
Final Thoughts
Remember – everybody has a yoga body! Whether it’s following a YouTube video in your bedroom or attending a class at your local community centre, anyone can get involved and reap the benefits of yoga.
If you would like to learn more about yoga and its relationship with our mental health, we encourage you to check out this beginner’s guide from Calm.
If you are in crisis and need immediate support with your mental health, there are a number of different helplines available here in the UK:
- Samaritans
- National Suicide Prevention Helpline UK
- Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
- Shout
- The Mix
You can also always explore our self-help resource here at The Lily-Jo Project, which features top tips, personal stories, and practical advice for maintaining good mental health.
Further Resources on Yoga, Meditation, and the Relationship Between Physical and Mental Health
If you found this article helpful, check out these additional recommended resources on yoga and mental health:
- Article from Johns Hopkins, 9 Benefits of Yoga
- YouTube channel, Yoga with Adrienne
- Resource from Mind on Mindfulness
- Pilates and yoga videos from the NHS
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