Breathing life into balance: Aishwarya Bansal’s Yoga journey

Every year, nearing International Yoga Day, I end up thinking more intensely about the power of transformation that lies in something so old, yet so eternally pertinent- Yoga.To me, Yoga originally started out as an exercise routine, a means to stretch and relax in between meetings, commuting, and the seemingly never-ending to-do lists of building and expanding companies.

But eventually, it has become so much deeper- a centering force, a daily reboot button, and a gentle push that reminds me to be balanced amidst the craziness of contemporary living.Recently, I spent time in the presence of some spiritual leaders- people who have made their lives a mission about spiritual well-being and group consciousness. Through all their different paths and views, one strand was jarringly consistent: the requirement to integrate Yoga and meditation into every day life- not as an occasional pleasure, but as a requirement.

Their messages lingered. And more importantly, so did their energy- calm, clear, centered.

It reminded me that amidst ambition and acceleration, what we often forget is the importance of stillness.Yoga, in its purest sense, isn't so much about physical dexterity- it's about mental toughness. Science confirms this. Several studies in scientific journals such as Frontiers in Psychiatry and JAMA Internal Medicine have established that practising yoga and meditation regularly can drastically mitigate stress, even anxiety.

For working professionals like myself who tend to work in high-stress environments with decision fatigue, the capacity to mentally reset becomes not only useful, but essential.This year, on the day of International Yoga Day, we are hosting specially curated yoga sessions at all our offices, conducted by trained experts. It's a modest step but a genuine one. I want the entire organisation - the leadership and the newest joiner alike- to feel the benefits of this practice in their own lives.

Because I passionately believe that the health of an organisation mirrors the health of its people.We are an age where burnout is a badge of honour, and where being constantly connected tends to disconnect us from ourselves. Yoga presents a lovely counter-narrative. It shows us that slowing down can be the quickest path to clarity, creativity, and compassion.As a leader, I take it upon myself to not only advocate for innovation and growth but also to exemplify care and balance.

That involves making wellness non-negotiable, not just in policy, but in practice.So today, as we all unfurl our mats and breathe deep into our bodies, I invite you to stop- not just for a stretch, but for quiet. Not just for strength, but for gentleness. And not just for today, but for each day thereafter.For when we honour the mind, the body will follow. And when we guide from that space of harmony, everything else takes care of itself.Happy International Yoga Day- and remember, the best pose is the one where you’re kind to yourself. And a gentle nudge to hydrate.Contributed by Aishwarya Bansal, Co-founder, Smarteorld DevelopersDisclaimer - The above content is non-editorial, and TIL hereby disclaims any and all warranties, expressed or implied, relating to it, and does not guarantee, vouch for or necessarily endorse any of the content.