Redefining Strength through Yoga with Tejal Patel

What if our understanding of strength went beyond the physical to encompass mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions? Brea Johnson, founder of Heart and Bones Yoga, sat down with Tejal Patel, a first-generation Indian American yoga teacher, writer, podcaster, and community organizer. On this episode of the Heart and Bones Podcast, they explore the deeper meanings of strength as taught by yoga and discuss how to reclaim yoga's holistic roots.

This blog provides an overview of their conversation and serves as an additional resource for those interested in learning from Tejal or incorporating her insights into their personal practice. Don’t forget to listen or watch the episode to get all the great information Tejal offers!

What is Holistic Strength?

Holistic strength involves more than just physical capabilities; it includes mental resilience, emotional stability, and spiritual grounding. Tejal explains that true strength is the capacity to handle life’s challenges with grace and compassion, moving beyond superficial definitions.

"Strength in yoga is about cultivating inner peace, stability, and an understanding of oneself," Tejal says.

Why is Holistic Strength Important?

• Mental Resilience: Yoga helps build mental strength by encouraging mindfulness and self-awareness, allowing us to navigate stress and adversity with greater ease.
• Emotional Stability: Through practices like meditation and pranayama, yoga promotes emotional balance and helps us manage our reactions to life’s ups and downs.
• Spiritual Grounding: Yoga connects us to our inner selves and the world around us, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
• Physical Vitality: While not the sole focus, physical strength remains an important aspect of holistic well-being, supporting overall health and functionality.

Redefining Strength in Modern Yoga

The dominant cultural narratives have shaped modern yoga practices in the West. Often assimilated into a culture that values individualism and constant productivity, yoga’s deeper, more communal and spiritual roots can be overshadowed. By recognizing these influences, we can begin to reclaim yoga as a practice that honors its origins and promotes collective well-being.

Tejal highlights the importance of understanding the cultural context of yoga and resisting the urge to fit it into a binary framework of right or wrong. She encourages embracing the nuanced, subjective nature of strength and well-being, advocating for practices that support both individual and collective growth.

Practical Tips for Cultivating Holistic Strength

Feeling inspired to deepen your practice? Tejal offers several practical tips:

• Start with Restorative Yoga: Engage in restorative yoga to experience the power of deep relaxation and inner support. Use plenty of props to ensure complete comfort and support.
• Dive into Yoga Philosophy: Study foundational texts like the Yoga Sutras to understand the broader aims of yoga and integrate these teachings into your practice.
• Ask Questions: When exploring new yoga communities or practices, ask questions about their values and approaches to ensure they align with your goals.
• Trust Your Inner Experience: Focus on how poses and practices feel internally rather than how they appear externally. This shift can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling practice.