Want more yoga and human connection? Your nervous system does!

Yoga has been an integral part of my life for 25 years. While it offers countless benefits, for me its greatest gift is what it does for my mental well-being. Whenever I feel down, anxious, or out of sorts, I head to a yoga class, and without fail, I leave feeling more grounded and lighter.

Yoga has a unique way of drawing me out of my thoughts and into my body, deepening my awareness of my internal space. The movement, mindfulness, and shared energy of practicing alongside others—even strangers—create a profound sense of connection and belonging, which helps regulate the nervous system.

While online yoga offers convenience and supports consistency, nothing compares to the energy of an in-person class. The collective intention, unspoken connection, and shared presence create a healing effect that’s hard to replicate.

Yoga is a powerful tool for self-regulation, but as social beings, we also thrive on human connection. Meaningful interactions release oxytocin—the “bonding hormone”—which soothes the nervous system and fosters a sense of safety and support. Sometimes, words aren’t even necessary—simply practicing beside one another can create a deep feeling of togetherness.

Practicing in person together once a week is enough to carry that sense of connection into our online classes. Seeing familiar faces on Zoom feels different when we’ve shared space over the weekend.

By weaving both yoga and genuine connection with each other into our lives, we cultivate belonging, build resilience, and experience greater clarity and ease. Caring for ourselves in this way lays the foundation for a more balanced, joyful, and connected life.

And who doesn't want more of that?