As the world observes International Yoga Day, actress Kanika Maheshwari has shared her deeply personal interpretation of yoga, emphasizing that it transcends the boundaries of a mere physical regimen. For her, yoga is a profound journey of awareness and understanding life itself.
Yoga as a Verb, Not a Noun
Kanika Maheshwari explains that yoga teaches a fundamental truth: life is not a noun but a verb. "A noun stays the same, while a verb is always in motion," she says. "Yoga teaches us that life is not something we have, but something we live every day. Every breath, every thought, and every action is a part of that journey." This perspective shifts the focus from static goals to dynamic experiences.
Moving Beyond Chasing Goals
In a world where people are constantly told to chase specific outcomes—what they want to be, where they want to go—yoga offers a counterpoint. It reminds us that life is a journey, not a destination. Through deep breathing, meditation, and self-awareness, individuals can fully enjoy each moment. Kanika believes this mindset harmonizes the mind, body, and soul, enabling a more meaningful existence.
Applying Yoga to Everyday Life
Kanika elaborates that this philosophy can be applied to every aspect of life. "It is not love, but loving. It is not a relationship, but relating. It is not faith, but trusting. It is not happiness, but enjoying life. It is not knowledge, but learning every day," she says. "Yoga teaches us that life becomes meaningful through our experiences, not through the names we give them." This approach encourages active participation in life rather than passive labeling.
Building Deeper Connections
Yoga also fosters better connections with others, according to Kanika. In an era dominated by digital devices, where people are often connected to screens but not to each other, yoga emphasizes caring for others. Whether with family, friends, or close acquaintances, yoga helps build relationships through presence and kindness. "People often focus on getting things and being someone, but yoga teaches us to be present," she notes. "When we stop talking about life and start living it, we feel more connected to ourselves and the people around us. That is where we really connect with our souls."
Living Yoga Every Day
Kanika concluded with a powerful message for International Yoga Day: "It is not about doing yoga poses for one day. It is about living a life where we are always growing, relating, learning, and changing. Yoga teaches us that life is something that is always happening, and the more we are a part of it, the more it means to us."
