The Benefits of Yoga for Your Health and Sex Life
Introduction
Yoga is a holistic system that has its roots in ancient India. Over the centuries, different schools of yoga have emerged. Each with its own unique approach, teachings and emphasis. The most well-known and practised ones are ‘Ashtanga’, ‘Hatha’, ‘Vinyasa’ and ‘Yin’ Yoga.
The term ‘Yoga’ encompasses a group of physical, mental and spiritual practices that originated in ancient India and are deeply intertwined with the Tantric path. Rooted in the principles of balance, energy flow and mindfulness, it combines physical postures ‘asanas’, breathing exercises ‘pranayama’ and meditation to promote not only physical health but also emotional well-being and energetic equilibrium. One of the main aims of yoga is to cultivate a state of balance between body, mind and energy, which is the foundation of good health and sexual vitality.
The Importance of Energy Flow
Yoga is not just about flexibility and strength; it’s primarily about energy – specifically the flow of ‘prana’, or ‘life force energy’, throughout the body. By practising yoga, we can clear and (re)activate the energy channels of our system, which are connected to the ‘chakras’, the energy centres of the body. When energy can circulate freely through our system, we feel more balanced, grounded and vibrant.
Blockages in the flow of energy, often caused by emotional or physical tension and trauma, can affect everything from our mood and health to our sexual functioning. Regular practice keeps these channels clear, increasing both vitality and sexual performance.
Stretching to Counter Energy Blockages
Stretching is an essential aspect of the yoga practice. A tense body has the potential to impede the natural flow of energy, leading to energy blockages. These blocked energies can become trapped in various parts of the body and, if not properly addressed, can contribute to ongoing discomfort, inflammation and even chronic pain and disease.
When we are in a weakened emotional or energetic state, such as during prolonged periods of stress, by following toxic habits, or by experiencing traumatic events, the risk of developing energy blockages is particularly high.
Yoga for Enhanced Sexual Health
Yoga, as part of the tantric path, plays a transformative role in enhancing sexual health and capability. It improves pelvic floor muscle tone and overall body awareness. Specific asanas, such as bridge pose and squat variations, activate the pelvic region, helping to increase blood and energy flow to the genitals.
Recent studies published in ‘The Journal of Sexual Medicine’ suggest that regular yoga practice can effectively lead to stronger, more reliable erections, improved libido and a more sensitive and pleasurable response to sexual stimulation.
Increased Flexibility
Physical limitations such as stiffness or tightness can make it difficult for some people to be intimate with their partner(s). The hips, groin and lower back are particularly affected. Regular yoga practice is an effective way to address these challenges, with most individuals noticing significant improvements in flexibility and strength within just three months of consistent effort.
Yoga also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, two of the main culprits that prevent us from entering a state of mental flow, which is key to surrendering to the moment and thus truly indulging in the realm of pleasure.
A Deeper Relationship With Ourselves and Our Partners
Through its holistic nature, yoga enables us to connect more deeply with ourselves and others. Over time, we learn to control our body and breath, regulate the flow of energy and calm our thoughts, allowing us to anchor ourselves more fully in the present moment.
Yoga also cultivates greater awareness of our thoughts and emotions. Immersing ourselves in a yoga flow is an ideal opportunity to reflect on daily concerns and process the feelings they evoke. This not only alleviates stress but also replenishes our creational energy and promotes emotional balance.
For me, all of these transformative facets are an integral part of living a healthy, empowered life and being able to deeply explore the realms of holistic sexuality.
© Philipp, 09 February 2022
