“Yoga is how I experience life. It has given me an understanding that everything is sacred… It has elevated every single aspect of my life… Experiencing devotion and ritual in everyday makes [it] so much richer”.

Paloma Ferretti, endota Retreat guide and neuroscience student

the relationship between yoga and the mind-body-spirit connection

Originating from the ancient Indian language Sanskrit, yoga means ‘union’ or ‘to yolk’, or as Paloma eloquently puts it “the union of existence by experience”. Uniting the mind, body and spirit through movement, breath and awareness, yoga has always demonstrated that our mind and body are deeply intertwined - a philosophy that science is only just catching up on. “Scientists are now confirming the link between one’s thoughts, attitudes and emotions, and our physical health” says Paloma. This has been concluded by The University of San Diego, who found “numerous overlapping biochemical mechanisms that turn positive thoughts into healthier bodies and vice versa”. 

This is a powerful concept to grasp. That by shifting our internal narrative we can change the way we feel. Or that by actively taking care of our physical health, we can experience a more positive mindset. But, this control over our wellbeing is possible, and it can be achieved through yoga. 

“Yoga is a pathway back to homeostasis, as our breath offers a direct link to our nervous system. Something as simple as bringing your awareness to your breath and consciously slowing it down activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which oversees the relaxation and restoration response, helping your body operate in a way that supports good health,” says Paloma. From this perspective, yoga is a tool that can help us maintain a stable internal environment, enabling us to enjoy a relaxed way of living well.