I’ve practised yoga daily for over five years. People often ask, “How do you keep it up?” But honestly, the more important question is, “Why?” The answer lies in how yoga has become a cornerstone of my Buddhist practice.
A Journey to Daily Practice
Back in 2019, during my first trip to India, I had the unexpected chance to learn yoga. Every morning for a month, I practised under the guidance of a kind teacher named Madan. Before this, I had barely tried yoga, but by the end of that month, I felt confident enough to continue on my own. At first, it was all about the physical benefits—feeling more flexible, energised, and relaxed. But when I discovered Buddhism two years later, yoga took on a whole new meaning.

Yoga and the Buddhist Path
In Buddhism, the path to enlightenment is often described as threefold: meditation, ethics, and wisdom. Yoga weaves seamlessly into all three.
Meditation
Yoga doesn’t just prepare the body for meditation; it is meditation. When you cultivate a body that’s more flexible and aligned, you can sit comfortably for longer, supporting deeper meditative states. But meditation isn’t limited to sitting. Every posture (asana) can become a meditative practice—even a standing or balancing pose can foster mindfulness and presence.
Ethics
Yoga teaches us to approach our bodies with kindness, meeting them where they are rather than forcing them to meet unrealistic expectations. This attitude mirrors Buddhist ethics: acting with compassion and care rather than causing harm. Off the mat, the energy and vitality gained from yoga enable us to show up more fully for others. A healthy body and mind make it easier to live ethically and give generously.
Wisdom
Through yoga, I’ve developed a deeper awareness of my body and its subtle signals. This awareness often reveals emotional states that my mind tries to bury beneath distractions. For example, tight shoulders might signal that I’m carrying too much responsibility, or a closed chest might reflect emotional withdrawal. Over time, yoga has also heightened my sensitivity to energetic flows in the body, opening the door to profound insights into impermanence and interconnectedness—core Buddhist teachings.
The Role of a Teacher
I owe much of my passion for yoga to my teacher, Madan. He showed me not only how to practise but also why it matters. A teacher provides inspiration and tailored guidance, especially at the start, when everything feels new and uncertain. Without Madan’s encouragement, I might never have discovered how transformative yoga could be, both physically and spiritually.
Staying Consistent
Consistency comes from staying connected to your purpose. For me, yoga is a practice that never fails to leave me feeling more alive and centred. On days when my motivation dips, remembering how much better I feel after yoga helps me return to the mat. Attending in-person classes also keeps my practice fresh and inspired.
Conclusion
Yoga is far more than a physical exercise; it’s a powerful complement to Buddhist practice. On its own, yoga can transform your body and mind, but in the context of Buddhism, it becomes a path to far deeper insight and liberation. By integrating yoga into meditation, ethics, and wisdom, you’re not just stretching your body—you’re expanding your capacity to awaken. If you’re curious, start small and find a teacher who resonates with you. The journey is worth it, and the rewards are profound.