Yoga: From an Engineer's Perspective

Ever so often I am asked how it is that someone with such a strong engineering, mathematical, analytical background finds themselves teaching yoga.

One of my more immediate responses is that as an Engineer it is pretty easy to hold yoga in high regards, as it is the most efficient system of exercise that exists.

Think about it. Initially you may need one or two props, but by and large with just your body and the 2'x5' area a mat occupies, you have a strengthening, lengthening, weight lifting, therapeutic, meditative opportunity all rolled in one. No enormous exercise equipment taking up space, no special shoes or clothing to put on. You could just roll out of your bed, roll out your sticky mat and do yoga.

Aside from that though, the study of yoga is one of the most analytical subjects I have ever come across. Every pose presents a challenge that has to be 'figured out' to rid us of discomforts and thus allow us to reach a meditative state. To 'solve the problem' requires deep analysis and several rounds of trial and error.

Reading through the history of yoga in the west we find that Yehudi Menuhin, the master musician, who was the catalyst for importation of yoga to the west, had called yoga his greatest violin teacher. I personally believe it has made me a better Engineer. Yoga through its effectiveness as an overall self improvment tool, can be a tremendous asset whatever your chosen vocation.