Detachment Through Yoga

The Art of Letting Go Without Losing Yourself

I know what it’s like to be caught in anxious thoughts because of people, circumstances, or desires. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve let situations beyond my control take over my days, my sleep, and sometimes even my work. It happens so quickly. One moment, everything feels fine, and the next, you’re consumed by the need to control an outcome, to shape things in a way that brings you ease. Sometimes, that ease comes from wanting more - more certainty, more validation, more reassurance.

But what if I told you that true freedom doesn’t come from wanting more, but from needing less?

Yoga offers a time-tested blueprint for detachment - not through avoidance, but through mastery over the mind and body. At its core, detachment is what allows us to move toward enlightenment, deeper states of bliss, and true liberation from the grip of ego and attachment. To reach Puruṣa (our true self), we must learn to let go. That means detaching from outcomes, expectations, and even people.

And when I say detaching from people, I don’t mean isolating yourself or shutting others out. I mean becoming so deeply aligned with yourself that if someone chooses to leave, you remain whole. That’s the art of detachment in relationships - knowing that your peace isn’t dependent on anyone else.

So, how do we actually get there using yoga?

In this week’s read, I’ll be sharing a framework with three powerful ways yoga can help you detach. It’s an essential part of your yoga journey…far more important than just becoming more flexible! Let’s start with the 8 limbs…

The 8 Limbs of Yoga as a Path to Detachment

The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali provides us with many ways to live a more balanced an harmonious life, emphasising control over our minds throughout. There is so much wisdom in these teachings, and when practiced with dedication, they can lead to true liberation. The Eight Limbs of Yoga, as outlined in the Sadhana Pada, offer a powerful starting point for understanding detachment in a tangible, practical way.

Yamas & Niyamas: Releasing Attachments to External & Internal Expectations

The Yamas (our behaviours) and Niyamas (self-observances) help shape both our actions and mindset, guiding us toward a more harmonious way of living. Take Aparigraha (non-possessiveness), for example - this practice teaches us to release attachment to material things, people, and emotions that no longer serve us. It invites us to ask: What am I holding on to that might actually be holding me back?