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Cultivating Love: Yoga for Self-Acceptance and Forgiveness

Updated: Oct 27, 2024

yoga at work for stress reduction

Yoga is a powerful practice that can help cultivate self-acceptance and forgiveness, two essential components of inner peace and personal growth.


Self-acceptance allows us to embrace who we truly are, including our strengths, weaknesses, and imperfections. We acknowledge our current state of being and recognize and accept our whole self without judgment.


Forgiveness is the art of letting go, releasing stuck emotions and resentment that we carry from past actions or experiences. We acknowledge our hurt yet we choose to let go, and move forward.


In yoga practice, self-acceptance is cultivated through asanas (poses) that challenge our limitations and encourage us to honor our bodies as they are while forgiveness is often addressed through meditation, pranayama (breathing exercises), and reflective practices that help release stagnant energy or perhaps behaviors that no longer serves us.


The Connection Between Self-Acceptance and Forgiveness

Self-acceptance and forgiveness are like two sides of the same coin in yoga philosophy:

  1. Embracing imperfections: Yoga teaches us to accept ourselves as we are, including our flaws and limitations. This acceptance naturally extends to forgiving ourselves for past mistakes or perceived shortcomings.

  2. Present-moment awareness: Yoga teaches us to be present, helping us accept our current state and release past grievances. As we learn to be fully present, we're able to let go of past regrets and future anxieties, making it easier to forgive ourselves and others.

  3. Non-judgment (Ahimsa): The yogic principle of non-violence or non-harm (Ahimsa) applies not just to others but also to ourselves, using non-judgment as a branch. By practicing non-judgment, we cultivate self-acceptance and become more forgiving.

  4. Inner reflection: Yoga provides space for introspection, allowing us to understand our thoughts and emotions better. This self-awareness is crucial for both self-acceptance and forgiveness.

  5. Emotional release: Physical yoga practice often leads to emotional release. As we release tension from our bodies, we also let go of emotional baggage, making room for forgiveness and self-love.

  6. Compassion cultivation: Regular yoga practice nurtures compassion – both for ourselves and others. This compassion is the foundation of true forgiveness and self-acceptance.


By integrating these aspects, yoga creates a powerful environment for personal growth. And as we learn to accept ourselves more fully, we become more capable of forgiving our own mistakes and those of others. Similarly, as we practice forgiveness, we open our hearts to greater self-acceptance.


The Physical Benefit of Letting Go

When we practice self-acceptance and forgiveness, our bodies undergo several positive physical changes. These changes are interconnected with our mental and emotional states, demonstrating the powerful mind-body connection that yoga emphasizes.


Here's an overview of what happens physically to our bodies as we accept and forgive ourselves:

  1. Reduced Stress Hormones:

    • Cortisol and adrenaline, two primary stress hormones, which keep us in a state of high alert, begin to subside. This reduction allows our body to shift from a state of constant "fight or flight" to a more relaxed state.

    • As stress hormones decrease, our cardiovascular system relaxes. This leads to a healthier, more stable blood pressure and a calmer heart rate, reducing the risk of heart-related issues.

    • Chronic stress can suppress our immune system, making us more susceptible to illnesses. As stress hormones decrease, our immune system becomes more robust, better equipped to defend against pathogens and promote healing.

  2. Increased "Feel-Good" Hormones:

    • Often called the "love hormone" or "cuddle hormone," oxytocin promotes feelings of bonding, trust, and comfort which is produced and released during physical affection and self-compassion.

    • Serotonin increases which plays a crucial role in mood regulation, contributing to feelings of well-being, happiness, and emotional stability.

    • Known as the "reward" neurotransmitter, dopamine is associated with pleasure and motivation which increases and promotes positive vibrant feelings.

  3. Muscle Relaxation:

    • Particularly in areas where we tend to hold stress, like the neck, shoulders, and back, muscles begin to relax. This release can be profoundly relieving, especially for those with chronic tension.

    • As muscle tension eases, our natural posture often improves. This can lead to a reduction in chronic pain associated with poor posture or tension-related issues.

  4. Improved Digestion:

    • When stress reduces, our digestive system can operate more effectively. This includes better nutrient absorption and more regular bowel movements.

    • Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, or general digestive discomfort often improve as we cultivate self-acceptance and forgiveness.

  5. Better Sleep Patterns:

    • As mental rumination and self-criticism decrease, falling asleep becomes easier. The mind is calmer and less likely to race with worried thoughts.

    • Lower stress levels contribute to deeper, more restorative sleep. This can lead to feeling more refreshed and energized upon waking.

  6. Enhanced Breathing:

    • As we release tension and anxiety, our breath naturally becomes deeper and more rhythmic. This shift often happens unconsciously as we practice self-acceptance.

    • Deeper breathing means more oxygen enters our bloodstream. This improved oxygenation benefits every cell in our body, promoting overall health and vitality.

  7. Cardiovascular Benefits:

    • By lowering stress and promoting relaxation, we reduce the strain on our heart, potentially lowering the risk of cardiovascular issues.

    • As we relax, blood vessels dilate, allowing for better blood flow throughout the body. This improved circulation benefits every organ system.

  8. Strengthened Immune System:

    • A stronger immune system is better equipped to identify and neutralize harmful pathogens.

    • With improved immune function, the body can heal wounds and recover from illnesses more efficiently.

  9. Balanced Nervous System:

    • We move from the "fight-or-flight" state (sympathetic) to the "rest-and-digest" state (parasympathetic). This shift is crucial for overall health and well-being.

    • The 'rest and digest' parasympathetic state is where our body conducts most of its repair and regeneration processes, supporting long-term health.

  10. Reduced Inflammation:

    • Studies have shown that forgiveness and self-compassion can reduce levels of inflammatory markers in the blood which may have positive implications for conditions linked to chronic inflammation, such as arthritis or cardiovascular disease.

  11. Improved Brain Function:

    • Brain scans show increased activity in regions associated with compassion and emotional control. This activity can form new neural pathways, potentially improving emotional resilience and cognitive function.

  12. Enhanced Coordination:

    • Reduced mental and physical tension can lead to better coordination, flexibility, and overall physical performance.

    • As we become more accepting of ourselves, we often develop a keener sense of our body's needs and capabilities.


It is important to understand that these changes don't happen overnight. They are the result of consistent practice and patience. As you continue to grow on your yoga journey, pay attention to various subtle changes in your body. Bring awareness to how your body responds with each mindful exercise. This will positively impact your ability to easily navigate through your personal practice of self-acceptance and forgiveness ultimately reaching long lasting inner peace and calm.


Breathing Exercise for Inner Peace

Forgiveness Breath

  1. Sit comfortably with a healthy posture, close your eyes, and place one hand on your heart.

  2. Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 counts, feeling your chest expand.

  3. Hold the breath for 2 counts.

  4. Exhale slowly through your mouth for 6 counts, imagining you're releasing any tension or negative emotions.

  5. As you exhale, mentally repeat, "I forgive and accept myself fully."

  6. Continue this breathing pattern for 5-10 minutes, focusing on self-acceptance and forgiveness with each breath.


5 Yoga Poses for Inner Peace and Calm

  1. Child's Pose (Balasana)

    • Promotes release and surrender while calming the mind and relieving stress for self-reflection and acceptance

  2. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)

    • Increases spine flexibility and body awareness while synchronizing the breath with movement, promoting ten release in the torso, neck, and shoulders.

  3. Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana II)

    • Builds strength and confidence while encouraging openness and vulnerability, cultivating balance between effort and ease

  4. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)

    • Calms the mind and reduces anxiety for greater self-reflection while releasing tension from the spine and hamstrings.

  5. Corpse Pose (Savasana)

    • Promotes complete relaxation and surrender free from

      judgmental thoughts, fostering self-acceptance.


By incorporating mindfulness through breathing techniques and yoga poses into your daily routine, you can cultivate a greater sense of self-acceptance and forgiveness.


Remember that this journey is unique for everyone, so approach it with patience, compassion, and an open heart. As you continue to practice, you'll likely find that the seeds of self-acceptance and forgiveness grow stronger, leading to a more peaceful and balanced life.

Every journey begins with a step.

Ready to embrace yoga's transformative power and embark on a journey towards a healthier, more balanced you? Schedule a free consultation. Click here to book your appointment today.


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Disclaimer: This post is for information purposes only and is not meant to be considered as medical advice. It is important to note that yoga and life coaching can serve as compliments to professional mental health therapy, not replacements.

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