The Space Between: Viktor Frankl's Wisdom and Its Connection to Yoga

Viktor Frankl, a Holocaust survivor, psychiatrist, and writer, once said, "Between the stimulus and the response, there is a space. In that space lies our power and our freedom." This profound insight speaks to the essence of human experience, highlighting the potential within each of us to choose our responses to life’s challenges. Interestingly, this concept resonates deeply with the principles of yoga, a practice that emphasises mindfulness, self-awareness, and intentional living.

Yoga, at its core, is more than just a physical practice; it is a holistic approach to life that cultivates a deep connection between the body, mind, and spirit. One of the central teachings of yoga is the idea of creating space—both within the body and the mind. This space allows us to pause, reflect, and respond to life with greater awareness and intentionality. Frankl’s quote aligns perfectly with this philosophy, suggesting that our true power and freedom lie in the ability to create and utilise this inner space.

The Stimulus and Response in Yoga

In our daily lives, we are constantly exposed to stimuli—external events, interactions, and thoughts that can trigger automatic reactions. These reactions are often driven by ingrained habits, fears, or emotions. In yoga, we learn to slow down and become more mindful of these triggers. Through practices like asana (physical postures), pranayama (breath control), and meditation, we develop the ability to observe our thoughts and emotions without immediately reacting to them.

For example, when holding a challenging yoga pose, the body may experience discomfort or the mind might wander into negative thoughts. The immediate reaction might be to give up, adjust the pose, or become frustrated. However, by focusing on the breath and observing these sensations without judgement, we create a mental space between the stimulus (discomfort) and the response (reaction). In that space, we have the choice to breathe through the challenge, adjust with intention, or simply observe the experience with acceptance.

The Power of Mindful Choice

This practice of creating space on the yoga mat translates directly to life off the mat. Just as we learn to navigate physical challenges in yoga, we can approach life’s difficulties with the same mindfulness and intentionality. Whether dealing with stress at work, conflicts in relationships, or personal setbacks, the ability to pause and choose our response can transform our experience.

Frankl’s insight reminds us that we are not merely passive recipients of life’s events; we are active participants in shaping our reality. Yoga teaches us that by cultivating awareness and creating space, we gain the power to respond rather than react. This shift from reaction to response is where true freedom lies.

Yoga as a Path to Freedom

In the broader context of yoga, the concept of creating space is deeply connected to the idea of liberation or *moksha*. Yoga is often described as a path to freedom—freedom from the constraints of the ego, the limitations of the mind, and the suffering of life. By practising yoga, we learn to let go of our automatic responses and instead act from a place of inner wisdom and peace.

Frankl’s quote serves as a powerful reminder of the freedom that is always available to us, even in the most difficult circumstances. Just as he discovered the power to choose his response in the midst of unimaginable suffering, yoga offers us the tools to find that same power in our own lives. By creating space between stimulus and response, we tap into our inherent potential for growth, healing, and transformation.

Viktor Frankl’s wisdom, when combined with the practice of yoga, offers a profound approach to living a more mindful and intentional life. Both emphasise the importance of creating space within ourselves—space to breathe, reflect, and choose our path forward. In this space lies our true power and freedom, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with grace, resilience, and a deeper sense of purpose.