"I didn’t choose yoga—yoga chose me. What started as a simple class to fix my health became my life’s mission to help women heal, grow strong, and flourish."
1. Can you share your journey into yoga and what inspired you to specialize in women's health?
I always say—I didn’t choose yoga, yoga chose me. Studying English Honours in Jaipur, I had no intention of stepping into yoga. But when the pandemic hit, I found myself confined at home, struggling with digestive issues, being underweight, and battling a short temper—effects of years spent in hostel life. That’s when my mother encouraged me to attend my first yoga class. That single decision changed my life.
As I delved deeper, I noticed a pattern—women often neglect their own well-being while managing their families and careers. Constant hormonal fluctuations, stress, and responsibilities push their health to the bottom of their priority list. I wanted to change that. That’s why I chose to specialize in women's health, creating a space where women can heal, grow stronger, and flourish—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
2. How does yoga support women's health at different stages of life?
Yoga plays a crucial role in every stage of a woman's life, offering physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Adolescence:
• Hormonal Balance: Yoga regulates hormones, easing mood swings and menstrual discomfort.
• Body Awareness: Helps foster a positive body image and reduces stress.
Reproductive Years (20s-30s):
• Menstrual Health: Relieves cramps, reduces PMS symptoms, and regulates cycles.
• Pregnancy: Enhances flexibility, strengthens muscles, and eases stress during pregnancy.
• Stress Management: Helps navigate career, relationships, and motherhood pressures.
Perimenopause & Menopause (40s-50s):
• Hormonal Stability: Eases symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
• Bone Health: Strengthens bones, reducing osteoporosis risk.
• Mental Well-being: Improves emotional balance during this transitional phase.
Postmenopausal Years:
• Joint & Muscle Health: Reduces stiffness, enhances flexibility, and strengthens joints.
• Heart Health: Supports cardiovascular function and circulation.
• Balance & Coordination: Reduces fall risks by improving stability.
Yoga’s holistic approach—combining breathwork, movement, and mindfulness—ensures that women stay resilient through every stage of life.
3. What are some common misconceptions about yoga for women’s health?
There are several myths around yoga and women’s health, including:
• “Yoga is only about flexibility.” Many believe yoga is just stretching, but it builds strength, endurance, and balance.
• “Yoga doesn’t help with weight loss or body toning.” Dynamic forms of yoga effectively tone muscles and support weight management.
• “Yoga is only useful during pregnancy.” It’s beneficial before, during, and after pregnancy, aiding fertility, recovery, and hormonal balance.
• “Yoga isn’t safe during menstruation or menopause.” Certain poses are actually beneficial during these phases, easing discomfort.
• “Yoga is for young women only.” Yoga is for every woman—whether she’s 16 or 60. It adapts to different life stages and abilities.
4. Can you share a simple yoga practice for daily hormonal balance?
Absolutely! These poses help regulate hormones, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being:
• Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose): Opens the hips and stimulates the reproductive organs.
• Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall Pose): Enhances circulation and relieves stress.
• Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose): Strengthens the lower back and regulates the endocrine system.
• Balasana (Child’s Pose): Calms the nervous system and relieves tension.
• Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances hormones and soothes the mind.
Even practicing these for 10-15 minutes daily can bring noticeable changes.
5. Mental health and physical health are deeply connected. How does yoga help women manage stress and anxiety?
Yoga is a powerful stress-relief tool because it works on multiple levels:
•Activates the parasympathetic nervous system: This helps the body enter a state of rest and recovery.
• Regulates cortisol (stress hormone) levels: Deep breathing calms the vagus nerve, reducing anxiety.
• Encourages mindfulness: By focusing on the present moment, yoga helps break the cycle of overthinking.
• Triggers endorphin release: These "feel-good" hormones naturally lift mood and combat anxiety.
• Improves sleep: Restorative yoga promotes relaxation and better sleep quality.
• Balances hormones: Stress often disrupts cycles, causes fatigue, and leads to mood swings. Yoga helps restore balance.
In essence, yoga isn't just movement—it’s a tool for mental clarity and inner peace.
6. What advice would you give to women who are new to yoga but feel intimidated?
Yoga is a journey, not a race. Start slow, listen to your body, and focus on progress rather than perfection. Here’s how to ease into it:
• Begin with beginner-friendly classes to build a solid foundation.
• Find a qualified teacher for proper guidance and injury prevention.
• Listen to your body—modify poses as needed and take breaks when necessary.
• Focus on breathwork to enhance relaxation and deepen your practice.
• Avoid comparison—every body is different, and yoga is about personal growth.
• Start small but stay consistent. Even 15-20 minutes a day can make a difference.
• Set realistic goals and celebrate small milestones.
And most importantly—yoga is for everyBODY!
7. Can you share a powerful transformation story from your students?
I’ve witnessed so many incredible transformations, but two stories stand out.
One of my students relied on multiple painkillers every day for unbearable menstrual cramps. With consistent yoga practice, her flow became smoother, and she no longer needs medication. She went from dreading her period to having pain-free cycles—something she never thought possible.
Another student was diagnosed with a breast cyst, which had grown to 22 cm. She was overwhelmed with stress. With disciplined yoga and breathwork, in just two months, the cyst size reduced to 14 cm! That’s the true healing power of yoga—it works from the inside out. The key is consistency, patience, and faith in the process.
8. Apart from yoga, what’s one wellness practice you swear by?
I have a few! My daily routine includes:
• Drinking warm water in Malasana (Squat Pose): Aids digestion and detoxification.
• Oil pulling: An ancient Ayurvedic practice that improves oral health and removes toxins.
• Pada Abhyanga (Foot Massage): Relaxes the nervous system, enhances circulation, and ensures restful sleep.
These small rituals, when practiced consistently, create a strong foundation for overall well-being.
Bio:
Kamya is a dedicated yoga mentor and women's health specialist committed to helping women prioritize their well-being. Her journey into yoga began unexpectedly during the pandemic, transforming her health and igniting a passion to empower others. With a deep understanding of the unique physical and hormonal challenges women face, she specializes in holistic yoga practices that promote balance, strength, and healing. Through her teachings, Kamya creates a nurturing space where women can reconnect with their bodies, manage stress, and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Interviewed by: Shrishti Chandra
Edited by: Shantanu Singh
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