Yoga and Optimism

by Victor Perton, author of "Optimism: The How and Why."

Yoga is an effective means of achieving physical and mental well-being, associated with good health, vitality and optimism.

According to my mother, Lilia Perton, a yoga teacher with over 50 years of experience, "Daily practice of Yoga and meditation are ways of achieving an optimistic mindset and presence. We can light up the room and light up the lives of people around us with a positive manner, mode of speech and a smile."

Yogi Sarvesh Shashi said, "Yoga teaches you how to be in the present and makes you understand how we can't undo the past and the future is yet to happen. So, live in the now. And in the now, there is only optimism. Yoga enhances your ability to understand and comprehend that everything happens for a reason."

Yoga promotes mindfulness and presence, boosts self-confidence, strengthens relationships, enhances attentiveness, reduces irritability, and fosters an optimistic outlook on life. As a result, you'll experience greater relaxation and optimism, empowering you to focus better on your work and home life.

My Mother's teaching evolved from Christian Yoga in the 1960s to Integral Yoga this century. Integral Yoga is a comprehensive system of Yoga that incorporates physical postures, breathing exercises, meditation, and other techniques designed to promote holistic well-being.

Sarvesh Shashi told me, "Yoga teaches you how to be in the present and makes you understand how we can’t undo the past and the future is yet to happen. So, live in the now. And in the now, there is only Optimism. Yoga enhances your ability to understand and comprehend that everything happens for a reason."

Ryma Bielkus told me, "Yoga connects you to your inner light where there is no fear and optimism is the only truth.” 

"With yoga, you can stay active, and optimistic."

Grand Master Akshar advises "build your immune system by the practice of yoga asanas, and meditation while boosting your mental health. Start your day early even during this time to maintain self-discipline in your life. With yoga, you can stay active, and optimistic. A regular practice will also keep you away from over-exposure to Covid news, which can have a negative impact on your health. Combine these basic asanas, meditation techniques along with a nutritious diet to come out of this ordeal stronger, and healthier."

Grand Master Akshar also wrote, "Home is where you head to at the end of each day for your peace and comfort. Your family is the source of solace and joy and adds meaning to your life. And Yoga can give us a sense of purpose in our lives filling it with hope and optimism. When you bring the two together, it makes the perfect recipe for health, love and happiness."

Alistair Gardiner, said, "yoga improves self-confidence, strengthens interpersonal relationships, increases attentiveness, lowers irritability, and encourages an optimistic outlook on life."

Mari Koerner, author of The Successful Dean, wrote "One key and seldom talked about condition for leaders, especially during stressful and troubling times, is self-care. These crises occur for individuals, units (like colleges), universities, and communities. For a leader to be effective, the first and most overlooked element of self-care is time set aside for reflection. “Find sanctuaries where you can reflect on events and regain perspective” These sanctuaries may include yoga, meditation, or simply talking to a friend. 

Read more of these inspiring quotable quotes in "Optimism: The How and Why" by Victor Perton, CEO of The Centre for Optimism.

Victor Perton

Generally, optimists attract other optimists, and those other optimists will boost your own optimism, joy and happiness. It can become a virtuous circle, but you first need to seek it out or set it up.

Project Optimism has produced "The Optimist's Gratitude Journal: 100 days to share and develop your gratitude" which is very helpful.

See https://www.amazon.com/Optimists-Gratitude-Journal-develop-gratitude/dp/B09MC5ZNPX