In the yogic journey, we often speak of inner transformation — quieting the mind, releasing samskaras, awakening to our true nature. But what is less discussed, yet profoundly influential, is how our outer environment supports, or hinders, that process.
Your Environment Shapes the Mind
Think about it: a breakup, a job switch, or enrolling into a new gym. What do these experiences have in common? You changed (whether forcibly or enthusiastically) where you placed yourself. New environments mean new people, new sights, new sounds, new values,
new ways of interacting, new skills required of you — the list goes on.
Our surroundings are not neutral. The spaces we inhabit — our homes, workplaces, communities — are all energetic fields. In yogic psychology, the mind (manas) is sensitive and porous; it absorbs the impressions of the world around it. This is why sacred spaces like temples, ashrams, or even a simple, quiet corner in nature can catalyse deep inner shifts. They offer the stillness we crave.
Creating a serene and intentional environment (even in small ways) supports mental clarity. Think of calming colours as opposed to neon, flashing lights, clearing clutter, or waking early to birdsong instead of a blaring alarm. These are not luxuries; they are tools for practice and radical change.
Each time this happens, you experience a radical shift in your sense of being.
Have you ever noticed that some of your biggest moments of growth came when you experienced drastic changes in environment - social or physical?
Community, Culture & Shared Intentions
We are also shaped by the people around us. Pardon the phrase but have you ever heard of the saying "If nine of your friends are alcoholics, you'll be the tenth." This is because the people we surround ourselves with, influence who we ultimately become. Therefore, one of the most critical factors required for us to become our best selves is inspiring company, also known as sadhu sangha in Sanskrit.
Keeping the company of the wise or like-hearted, is considered one of the most powerful accelerators of transformation. When we are surrounded by people committed to growth, presence, and truth, it strengthens our own resolve. On the other hand, toxic, chaotic, or judgmental environments often activate our defense mechanisms and pull us away from authenticity. This is why retreats and intentional communities can feel so impactful. They provide a clean, focused container for new habits, new perspectives, and deeper alignment. And that’s why Govinda Valley exists. In the Valley, we understand that all of us co-create the atmosphere and thus, directly affect the growth of one another. We call each other to show up as the best version of ourselves.
Here’s the kicker: At Govinda Valley, 5am wake ups, journalling, and meditating with the sunrise becomes your new norm. Surprisingly, we show up with these habits first because we want to become better people. However, we sustain them because we have a tribe that supports our new habits, especially when times get rough. Our peers help hold us accountable. Choose your environment and tribe by the new standards you want to set and see manifest for yourself.
Changing the Outer to Support the Inner
We don't need perfect surroundings to evolve. However, it sure helps that our surroundings don't tempt or test our patience. Yoga is ultimately about internal mastery. But shifting our environment, even slightly, can remove unnecessary resistance. A clean kitchen can support a shift in diet. A regular sleeping schedule can support a regulated nervous system. A peaceful room can support meditation. As you walk the path of yoga, consider: What in your outer world is supporting your growth? What might be subtly undermining it?
Small, conscious changes in your environment can unlock vast changes within.
You are one environmental influence away from a better you. Why postpone your growth?
