Yoga is a social phenomenon that has long since outgrown its niche as an esoteric-leaning sport. Every day, new yoga schools open, and new styles or hybrid forms emerge. So what is yoga really, and what does it do to you? We put these and other questions to charismatic yoga teacher, presenter, and conference interpreter Susanne Baumann-Cox from Graz.
Medicom: Susanne, yoga is on everyone's lips these days. But you have been doing it for 16 years. How did this early encounter come about? Susanne Baumann Cox: With my pregnancy. At the time, I was still a passionate rider and had two horses. When I became pregnant, I gave up riding because it seemed too dangerous to me. I had already observed yoga from a distance and thought I might like it, so I signed up for a prenatal yoga class. That's how it all started.
Medicom: It seems as if yoga is difficult to define. Is it gymnastics, esotericism, or a way of life? What is it for you personally? Susanne Baumann Cox: I come from the Anusara yoga school. It is an integrated system in which very precise and mindful asanas—that is, yoga postures—are combined with breathing exercises and meditation. Anusara means understanding the body, entering into a deep connection with it, and thus finding access to your own being. And through that, in turn, the connection to the world. Behind this is the tantric philosophy that we are all one wonderful, universal being. And broken down to everyday life, it simply means a better life—for me and everyone I deal with.
Medicom: And we have lost these connections to body and soul. Susanne Baumann Cox: Yes, definitely. Many people feel that way. Especially children and teenagers who stare at electronic devices all day, or older people who spend a lot of time sitting in the office and watching television in the evening. And it doesn't just stop at the mere connection to the body. Because this connection also creates confidence and strength, which can be transferred from the feeling of the body to the mental state. A holistic stabilization process.
Medicom: But couldn't this connection surely be established with other sports like swimming or jogging? Susanne Baumann Cox: Yes, certainly, but a lot happens automatically there, or you look at the clock or at various apps while doing it. Other sports are often performance-oriented and not as mindful or observant as yoga, which also protects the joints as a side effect.
Medicom: How do you judge the inflationary development of yoga offerings? Doesn't this trend dilute the true essence of yoga, and does the quality suffer as a result? Susanne Baumann Cox: I think the wide range is good. I believe that if everyone who goes jogging did yoga, the world would definitely be a better place. So here, the rule definitely applies: The more yoga, the better. And because the courses are becoming more and more specific, people and their needs are being catered to more precisely.
Medicom: For the undecided: for whom is yoga worth considering? Susanne Baumann Cox: Well, that's simple. It is suitable for everyone. Or to put it another way, everyone should try it out. But it is certainly suitable for people who have lost something in life and perhaps suffer from anxieties. With yoga, I can return to a fundamental trust that everything is as it should be somehow.
Medicom: And what is the best way to get started in the world of yoga? Susanne Baumann Cox: Many try to start their journey alone first and do yoga at home with DVDs or apps. But I wouldn't recommend that. You should just look at a few yoga schools in your area, have conversations, and see if it feels right for you. Some people want to relax, others really want to exert themselves and tone their body. At the end of a yoga class, you can tell very clearly whether you feel better and are on the right path.
Medicom: Now, it's not just the posture that has to be right; the breath is also an essential part of yoga. Do you have to relearn how to breathe? Susanne Baumann Cox: The breath is very important. When you come into the world, it is the first thing there, and when you leave the world, it is the last. With the breath, or through it, you can listen into the body very well. And as soon as you have understood that, it happens by itself. And if you breathe incorrectly, the body gives immediate feedback and you tense up. The body is such an intelligent, fantastic construct—that is one of the most central realizations in yoga.
Medicom: How can yoga be reconciled with the busy schedules of most working people? Shouldn't you practice it several times a week? Susanne Baumann Cox: Once you are into it, you don't want to stop anymore and somehow make the time. Sure, sometimes I only have 15 minutes a day for it. Then I do what I consider important, for example, a few sun salutations. That is perfectly enough. So, it is better to be brief and daily than long and weekly.
Medicom: Thank you very much for the conversation, Susanne.
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