What is spiritual yoga and how do you get started?

Spiritual yoga is a form of yoga that focuses on inner experience and spiritual development. Rather than just physical flexibility or relaxation, spiritual yoga focuses on:

• Deepening your consciousness

• Balancing your chakras (energy centers)

• Releasing ego and emotional blockages

• Connecting with your soul, intuition or a higher power

This form of yoga stems from the ancient philosophy of yoga, as described in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, in which not only body, but especially mind and spirit are trained.

Spiritual yoga is not just physical, it is an inner path to awareness, personal growth and connection to a deeper dimension.

Aspect	Regular yoga	Spiritual yoga
Focus	Body, flexibility, condition	Consciousness, soul, energy
Purpose	Relaxation, getting fit	Inner growth, spiritual awakening
Practices	Asanas, breathing	Asanas, meditation, mantras, self-reflection
Pace & depth	Dynamic or relaxing	Quiet, meditative, intuitive

Do you want to begin spiritual yoga? Then these 5 practical steps are a good starting point:

1. Set your intention

Ask yourself: why do I want to do yoga? A clear intention – such as more inner peace, spiritual connection or healing – helps you practice in a more focused way.

2. Choose a gentle style of yoga

Spiritual yoga is often practiced in:

• Hatha yoga (classical, calm and meditative)

• Kundalini yoga (focused on energy generation)

• Yin yoga (slow poses with lots of inner space)

3. Integrate meditation and breathing

Spiritual yoga includes more than postures. Practice also includes:

• Pranayama (breathing techniques)

• Meditation on the third eye, the heart or silence

• Mantras, such as Om or So Ham

4. Create a sacred space

Set up a quiet place at home with candles, incense or crystals. A fixed yoga spot helps you get into the right state of awareness.

5. Learn from a teacher or online guide

Find a teacher or course that focuses on spiritual yoga or awareness. There are many online platforms that offer guided sessions.

The effects of spiritual yoga are subtle but profound:

• More inner peace and less stress

• Deeper self-knowledge and emotional healing

• Increased awareness and spiritual insight

• A sense of connection to the bigger picture

Want to learn more about the science-based benefits of yoga, including spiritual growth and inner balance? Then read this article from Harvard Health Publishing: Yoga – Benefits Beyond the Mat
.

The information on this page is intended for educational and informational purposes. Spiritual yoga, chakras and related practices are not a substitute for medical or psychological treatment. Always consult a qualified physician or health care provider in case of physical or mental complaints.

Results of spiritual exercises can vary from person to person. Always listen to your own body and limits. The practice of yoga is done at your own risk.