How Does Yoga Contribute to Environmental Wellness

Y  oga means “union,” which also reminds us of our connection with all of nature. 

Yogis often get sorted in with the environmental crowd, but what’s the reason behind this phenomenon? Spending time on the mat doesn’t automatically translate to higher eco-consciousness — or does it? If so, how does the mechanism work? 

You might struggle to see the connection if you don’t look beyond the surface appearances of mandala-printed mats and chai tea. Although yoga may look like exercise, more of the traditional practice is mental rather than physical, fostering an understanding of the intricate connections between all things, including humans and their habitats. Digging a little deeper into the yogic tradition reveals more answers. Here’s how yoga contributes to environmental wellness. 

Environmental Wellness Defined 

Experts define environmental wellness as supporting human health by occupying pleasant, stimulating environments that enhance well-being. Such spaces invite interaction with the natural world and other humans. 

It’s easier to conceptualize if you think of other animals and the habitats they need to survive. People are not separate from their environment — they are an active, living part of nature. Fortunately, it follows that in the grand sacred geometry of the universe, the same practices that encourage human health also nurture the planet. 

How Yoga Positively Impacts the Environment by Encouraging Greater Sustainability

You can see how yoga positively impacts the environment by studying the six branches of the yoga tree and understanding the practice is much more than stretching on the mat: 

• Raja yoga: A “royal” path of meditation that may entail monastic life but can involve deeply contemplating the interconnected nature of life on the planet and how changing one thing creates a ripple effect impacting others. 
• Karma yoga: The branch of service built on the idea that what happens today results from our past actions and may include activities like tree-planting ceremonies. 
• Bhakti yoga: The path of devotion and love toward others. Adherents to this branch may travel to emerging countries, teaching them to use clean energy instead of fossil fuels. 
• Jnana yoga: The path of the scholar. Those drawn to this branch may research ways to make solar panels more effective. 
• Tantric yoga: The path of ritual, honoring ceremonies like Earth Day. 

These branches aren’t separate but interwoven. The mindfulness yogis develop on the mat spills into every area of their lives, letting them see connections and develop a deeper understanding of how each action affects another. 

For example, they may transform preparing a nurturing meal into an act combining several yogi branches. They may select fresh, organic produce for their kitchen, conscious of how the lack of fertilizer and pesticide use protects their health while preserving soil integrity for future generations. They may also mentally explore how the ingredients support mental and physical health, perhaps adding red pepper for vitamin C and a sprinkle of nuts for magnesium.