Yoga, Conflict, and the Path of Practice

Even in the most committed yoga practitioners, there are moments—inevitably—when we find ourselves responding in ways that don't feel especially yogic. We might snap in irritation, shut down in silence, defend our position fiercely, or stew in resentment.

It’s easy to forget the teachings when we're triggered or hurt. After all, our identities are strong. They’ve been shaped over a lifetime for survival, often built to protect and defend us in a world that doesn’t always feel safe.

Yoga doesn’t ask us to be perfect. It asks us to practice.

According to the Yoga Sutra, one of the root causes of suffering—and conflict—is avidya, or ignorance. Not ignorance in a simplistic sense, but rather a deep misperception of reality. We don’t see things clearly. We project. We assume. We filter others’ actions and words through our own biases and wounds.

Conflict, from the yogic perspective, often arises not just from “out there,” but from within the web of our own misunderstanding.

Our ego—asmita—can take center stage. We identify with our roles, our ideas, our opinions. And when those are challenged, it can feel like we ourselves are under attack. We want to be right. We want to be seen. We want to be safe. And this is where yoga begins—not at the moment when everything feels harmonious and serene, but right in the fire of difficulty. This is the real work.

Ahimsa, or non-harming, is the first step on the yogic path. It's not just about refraining from violence but about cultivating compassion, patience, and restraint. It challenges us to speak truthfully but with kindness, to listen even when it’s hard, and to pause before reacting.

Svadhyaya, or self-study, invites us to look honestly at our own patterns. What am I feeling? Why am I reacting this way? What part of me feels threatened? These aren’t easy questions, but they can turn conflict into a gateway for growth.

The Bhagavad Gita reminds us to act without attachment to the outcome—to do our part with integrity and let go of the rest. This is karma yoga- the yoga of action: showing up with presence and love, even when we can't predict or control the result.

And when the storm of negativity rolls in, Patanjali offers pratipaksha bhavana—the practice of cultivating the opposite. When anger arises, can we soften into compassion? When judgment shows up, can we offer understanding instead?

None of this happens overnight. It takes continual effort, attention, and humility to stay steady on the path. We will forget. We will fall. And that’s okay.

The practice isn’t about never losing your way—it’s about remembering again and again who you really are: Not the story. Not the reaction. Not the role or the wound. But the awareness behind it all. The one who can choose again.

So the next time conflict arises—internally or with someone else—pause. Breathe. And know that this too is yoga.

🌿 Come Practice With Us

If you’re feeling the need to reconnect, slow down, and soften into awareness, our Gentle Yoga classes offer a space to return to center. These classes are designed to support you physically, emotionally, and spiritually—especially when life feels challenging.

Gentle Yoga Schedule:🧘‍♀️ Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 9:00 AM🧘‍♂️ Saturdays at 11:00 AM

All levels are welcome. No experience necessary—just bring your breath and your willingness to begin again.