Yoga and interpersonal passion: opinions differ on this topic. Some believe that carnal matters have no place in yoga. Traditionally, it is about spiritual development with the goal of enlightenment. In other words, liberation from all earthly concerns. And therefore definitely not about the most earthly of all desires. For others, yoga cannot be sensual enough. Nowadays, many have flexible beauties in tight lycra outfits in front of their eyes, showing off their tight bodies in acrobatic contortions - and not only arousing envy.

As is so often the case, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Most yogis are neither monks nor models and go to their classes because yoga is simply good for them. The centuries-old, subtle exercises have a tremendous effect when practiced regularly, including on our love life.

Say goodbye to stress

There is hardly a worse pleasure killer than stress. Rushed people reproach their partner at dinner for not having thought of new milk and then crawl tiredly into bed to dream about the unfinished items on their to-do list. In the duel of "stress versus romance", the latter hardly stands a chance.
However, stress is not caused by the amount of demands we face every day. Rather, we are stressed when we no longer feel up to our tasks, when we run out of energy, when we lose sight of the big picture. When life is living us.

That's when yoga helps!

It counteracts stress in many different ways: The special postures reduce tension. The deep breathing calms by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. The meditations and the effort to harmonize movement and breath help the stressed mind to take a break and bring the carousel of thoughts to a (temporary) standstill. Those who loll up from a wonderful final relaxation after a yoga class can see clearly again and feel strong and comfortable in their bodies. And suddenly the chances of a romantic evening are no longer so bad.

Pain-free and fit

Sex is not a gymnastic exercise. But if your neck and shoulders are constantly tense, your back hurts or your hips crack at the slightest movement, it doesn't exactly promote the joy of togetherness. A pain-free, fit body paves the way for passionate love - even if it is not a prerequisite.
Regular yoga not only improves general fitness, builds muscles and increases flexibility. It also effectively relieves tension and back pain.
A fit body increases the chance of spending sensual hours together - without any screams of pain or breaks to recover ...

New posture, fresh energy

We are all happy when we look in the mirror and see a healthy, relaxed person full of energy. If you start practising yoga regularly, you will soon be pleased with the changes you see on the outside. This is because yoga not only improves blood circulation, which conjures up a sensual blush on the cheeks and can even prevent gray hair. The exercises also detoxify through deep breathing, special breathing exercises and postures. They also help to achieve an upright body and relaxed movements. Many yoga practitioners also report that they have been eating healthier since doing yoga and have lost weight as a result.

Those who walk through life more upright, relaxed and full of energy and finally shed the excess pounds not only feel more attractive. They are more attractive too.

Getting to know your body ...

Yoga is like a travel guide for the body: through regular exercises, we explore it step by step and get to know it better over time. Even people who have previously only seen their body as a practical utility object and have never given it much attention and love will be able to feel even the smallest muscles, discover unconscious tensions and perhaps even feel and move each toe individually.
If you want to experience sensual pleasure, your body is your most important instrument. If you can feel it and know what it likes and dislikes, then you can also enjoy being passionately together with another person much more. And that's not all: if you are sensitive to your own body and recognize its signals, you will also be able to empathize better with your partner's body - the ideal prerequisite for wonderful hours on the horizontal.

... and acceptance

Yoga often has an amazing side effect: you start to like yourself more. Perhaps this is because yoga brings you into constant contact with your own body - which you have always found fault with. Yoga turns it into a good friend. It's about feeling yourself, not comparing yourself to others. Yogis believe that everyone is perfect just the way they are. This idea leads to more self-love after a while. People who like themselves and their bodies are also happier in bed. After all, they don't have to hide their supposed cellulite, small breasts or tummy. They don't have to be ashamed of their needs, desires and wishes. Because those who really like themselves, who accept themselves as they are, can also relax and let go in intimate situations. They can trust that they will be accepted, open up and give themselves. They can let themselves be loved and give love themselves. This is surely the most important prerequisite for true passion.

In its wonderful diversity, yoga not only addresses the body, but also clears the mind and opens the heart. There is hardly a method better suited to reawakening passion for your partner and shared sensuality. So, off to yoga and then quickly home to your loved one!

Our author Katharina Goßmann is a yogini and editor at YogaEasy.