Articles

Yoga and Leadership

While most of us are familiar with the benefits of yoga for health and wellbeing - what about yoga and leadership? This is an exciting new area of study, and it seems regular yoga can enhance leadership practice in several ways …

Most of us have heard that yoga is good for us, and that it even has some amazing benefits for people experiencing disease and pain – but what about yoga and leadership?

This is an exciting new area of study, with early indications backing up what many have already suspected: regular yoga can enhance our leadership practice!

So what is yoga?

Yoga is a form of mind/body exercise, which combines physical postures with elements of mindfulness, meditation and breathing techniques.

Originating in India about three thousand years ago, the word ‘Yoga’ comes from the Sanskrit  ‘Yuj’, which means ‘to join’ or ‘to unite’. It’s a way of uniting body, mind and soul, and over the last five decades has become incredibly popular here in the west.

As a form of physical exercise, yoga helps to improve balance and flexibility as well as building core muscle strength, ideal for reducing the aches and pains that often accompany growing older.

The Benefits of Yoga

Studies have also shown that yoga is great for:

  • reducing chronic pain;

  • minimising depression, anxiety and stress;

  • improving sleep;

  • boosting the immune system;

  • and fighting against lifestyle diseases such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease and substance abuse.

These days, yoga is often utilised as a complementary therapy for those with serious health conditions such as cancer, as it has been shown to promote healing, increase energy, decrease adverse treatment effects, and enhance quality of life.

Yoga and Leadership: New Possibilities

But in addition to supporting mental health and wellbeing, it seems yoga may have much to offer those in leadership as well.

Concepts associated with authentic leadership – such as self-awareness, being present, compassion, and managing stress – are central to both yoga and leadership education.

While research into yoga and leadership is very much in its infancy, there are many conclusions that may be drawn from existing studies. For example, we know that regular yoga practice helps with improving sleep and energy levels. While a great benefit for any human being, how much more so for those in leadership!

Build Your Brain Power!

Yoga has a positive effect on the structure and/or function of various areas of the brain and its networks – and who doesn’t want to be a more ‘switched on’ leader? The positive effects on cognitive function include:

  • better concentration and focus;

  • greater speed and accuracy of working memory;

  • improved ability to learn and retain new information;

  • mental flexibility;

  • enhanced problem solving;

  • and better information recall.

As leaders, we frequently find ourselves in different situations where we need to be able to focus and be intentional – and yoga prepares us for that.

There are so many great benefits of yoga for anybody in a position of leadership – and by extension, to their organisation, employees, family, and society as a whole.

 So do I, as an executive leadership coach, include yoga into my daily routine? You bet I do! And if you haven’t embraced yoga as part of your leadership practice, I encourage you to give it a try and discover the many benefits for yourself!

Would you love to gauge how you are currently tracking along your own path to becoming an Extraordinary, Inspirational, Next Generational Leader: then please click here to utilise our free self-rating questionnaire!

Sources (viewed 24.02.21):

Articles & Media

Nurturing Success: The Power of Compassion and Love-Based Leadership in Managing Workplace Errors

Effective leadership is the linchpin of organisational success, and in today’s dynamic workplaces, it’s more critical than ever. This excerpt delves into the transformative impact of leadership training, emphasising the evolving role of leaders as visionaries, communicators, and motivators. From decision-making to conflict resolution, explore how our programs equip leaders with essential skills for navigating the complexities of modern business. At Peter Doyle Coaching, we believe in the long-term investment of leadership training, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration. Whether your needs are individual or group-based, we pose a crucial question to executives and managers: Can you afford to overlook the benefits of leadership training? If your answer is no, connect with us today to unlock your team’s full potential.

Read More

Unleashing Potential: The Crucial Role of Leadership Training in Today’s Workplaces

In today’s dynamic workplaces, leadership is a multifaceted role requiring adaptability and innovation. This excerpt emphasizes the crucial role of leadership training in enhancing decision-making, communication, team dynamics, and more. At Peter Doyle Coaching, we view leadership training as an investment in long-term success. Reach out to see how our tailored programs can empower your team and drive your organization forward.

Read More

Exploring the Profound Role of an Executive Coach

Uncover the pivotal role of Executive Coaches in today’s fiercely competitive business world. Learn how these seasoned professionals empower leaders, enhance personal and professional growth, refine leadership styles, boost performance, and foster effective problem-solving. Discover how Executive Coaching can propel you towards unprecedented success.

Read More

Leadership culture creates workplace of thriving

Discover how evolving work health and safety laws highlight the need for self-aware leadership to create thriving, psychologically safe workplaces. Peter Doyle Coaching recommends assessing and enhancing your leadership style to adapt effectively to these changes

Read More

Human-Centric Leadership and the Circular Economy

In the era of human-centric leadership, employees are valued and empowered. This approach is vital in the shift to a Circular Economy. Leaders with empathy, purpose, and optimism drive sustainable change. Get guidance from experienced professionals to join this transformative journey.

Read More

Learn, Unlearn, Relearn – What’s getting in your way?

Nurturing your human spirit through self-kindness and positive habits can lead to greater clarity and purpose in life.

Read More