Background: Recently studied within the boundaries of Positive Psychology, yoga is an ancient Eastern practice defined as a method binding mind, body and soul. It is argued that yoga can develop mental stillness, potentially increasing physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual health. Research suggests that long-term practitioners can develop spiritual motivations over time and gain benefits in these dimensions in terms of wellbeing. However, transcendental and spiritual experiences in yoga have not been fully explored. The experiences of yoga practitioners’ can provide interesting insights into how wellbeing is experienced and defined in the spiritual domain.
Research questions: What are the perceptions of regular Ashtanga Yoga Practitioners (AYPs) in relation to their spiritual wellbeing? Do regular AYPs’ perceptions and levels of spiritual wellbeing vary depending on characteristics of the practitioner?
Design: This mixed-method research used qualitative and quantitative data from an online survey and interviews from 23 participants qualifying as a regular AYPs. Participants represented different age groups, gender, countries, yoga expertise and spoken language (English or Spanish). Data was analysed qualitatively using word count, content and thematic analyses to explore common concepts and themes.
Results: Findings suggest that regular AYP define spiritual wellbeing in terms of connection to aspects and individuals in their environment and beyond the physical sphere, such as a higher source and a higher purpose and/or meaning. Other spiritual elements that were identified are related to the inner world, such as a feeling of peace, faith, soul connection and transcending the ego.
Scientific contribution: Although some elements mirror conceptualisations found in the literature (e.g., purpose and meaning), regular AYP’s definitions of spiritual wellbeing include qualities that mainstream wellbeing models do not consider. This will enable not only to expand our knowledge, but also to consider the implications in how we measure and design wellbeing interventions more effectively.