More than a feeling: Perceptions of wellbeing in regular Ashtanga Yoga practitioners

Abstract

As the understanding of subjective wellbeing within different populations continues to evolve, it is necessary to ensure the perspectives of people with diverse worldviews are included. This mixed methods study focuses specifically on 166 regular Ashtanga Yoga practitioners (AYPs), exploring participants’ perceptions of subjective wellbeing. Definitions were analysed using word count analysis and Reflexive Thematic Analysis, which yielded four overarching themes about the nature of wellbeing. The multidimensional nature included emotional, psychological, physical, spiritual, social, and ethical elements. The holistic nature highlighted integration, balance, and stability across wellbeing dimensions. The non-dualistic nature represented wellbeing comprised of seemingly dichotomous concepts (e.g., agency/receptiveness). The dynamic nature included change and embodied moment-to-moment experiences. Yoga may provide corporal and mental abilities resulting in the specific themes that emerged within participants’ responses. AYPs’ conceptualisations of wellbeing provide an avenue to explore embodied wellbeing, with implications in ways of knowing about and cultivating wellbeing in a way that directly incorporates mind, body, and spiritual interconnections.