Society welcomes the conscious man

A shift is happening in Yoga as more men are (re)embracing this ancient practice and realizing its profoundly positive impacts. By helping men get in touch with their inner selves, yoga creates ripple effects that make families, communities and society at large stronger.

At its core, yoga cultivates two key traits: self-awareness and self-mastery. The breathwork and meditation develop a man's ability to be present and mindful instead of operating on autopilot. The physical postures build concentration, grit and equanimity in the face of challenges.

This heightened consciousness and discipline then radiates into all areas of life:

• On the athletic field, yogic principles help men quiet self-doubt, manage emotions and remain focused under pressure. Countless elite athletes like NBA stars Kevin Love and Blake Griffin credit yoga for taking their game to the next level.

• In the military, yoga is being used to combat PTSD and prepare soldiers mentally and physically for the intensity of combat. A study at Walter Reed Army Medical Center found a 12-week yoga program reduced sleep disturbances, anxiety and physical pain in veterans. The breathwork and meditation help them stay grounded and resilient.

• For fathers, the patience, presence and self-regulation that yoga instills make them better able to show up for their kids. They become more attuned to their children's needs and model healthy emotional intelligence. Yoga has been shown to significantly reduce parental stress, anger and harsh behavior.

• In the workplace, yogic principles translate to improved leadership, decision-making and performance under pressure. Executives and entrepreneurs who practice yoga consistently report higher productivity, creativity and job satisfaction. The mindfulness allows them to respond to challenges more calmly and rationally instead of being hijacked by emotions.

At its essence, yoga helps men peel back layers of conditioning to uncover their innate virtues like compassion, integrity and courage. It gives them a process to look inward, understand their motivations, and act from a place of authenticity. This self-actualization positively impacts their ability to show up as better partners, fathers, leaders and community members.

The conscious masculine that yoga cultivates is a gift to society. Men who have tools to manage their stress, emotions and ego in a healthy way create less conflict and negativity. Their self-awareness allows them to empathize with others and be of service in a grounded way. Ultimately, their inner work has an outer resonance that uplifts those around them.