Yoga and overcoming perfectionism
Perfectionism is an armour we wear to cover our own insecurities
I feel heavy as I write this. Wanting to be perfect has always been part of my nature, rooted in my strict schooling, regimented upbringing, and the discipline that defined my childhood.
But what if I told you that striving for perfection is actually unhealthy? It stops us from trying new things and putting ourselves out there because we’re afraid of judgment, laughter, and ridicule. It took me a long time to accept this.
With that realization, I sought out practices that would help me let go of perfectionism—turning to yoga and meditation as tools for inward growth. As an overcoming perfectionist, I now feel a sense of duty to help others break free from these patterns so they can lead healthier, happier, and more stress-free lives.
Perfectionism
According to my favorite Author / Behavioural scientist Brene Brown, Perfectionism is a result of shame. When we experience, shame, judgement and blame, we believe its because we are not perfect enough. Instead of questioning why we feel this way, in a more logical manner, we go on this quest to live , look, and do everything just right.
As someone working through perfectionism, I know firsthand how it feels to carry that weight—it’s like wearing armour two sizes too big, trying to shield yourself but still feeling exposed. Looking back on my childhood, I see the patterns that shaped this. Growing up in a convent school, praise came only with achievements: top grades, excelling in sports, being well-mannered, and people-pleasing. Over time, I adopted the belief that my worth was tied solely to what I accomplished and how flawlessly I did it.
What made me realize this toxic trait of “perfectionism”
Perfectionists are always restless and never truly satisfied—that was me throughout my 20s. I jumped from one career to the next, constantly searching for validation, praise, and recognition. I took on so many projects, always hoping to feel accepted, but that feeling never came. It felt like I was racing against myself, and deep down, I knew I was on a path to burnout. The weight of never feeling enough was pushing me towards a “life paralysis”, and I realized this couldn’t go on.
How yoga helped me overcome “perfectionism”
I had no expectations whatsoever when I started practicing yoga. My body was stiff, nowhere near flexible, but as I kept attending classes every week, I knew that I was onto something. Some poses challenged me so much, that I realized just how far from perfect I really was. It humbled me and taught me that progress happens in its own time.
The moment I let go of needing to nail every pose perfectly, I noticed my body began to adapt naturally. It brought back the simple joy of learning, without needing praise or anyone else’s approval.
Can perfectionism be diagnosed and treated?
Looking at perfectionism as self improvement is the biggest mistake. Studies shows that perfectionism often sets you up for failure. When we always think of “What others will think of me”? we miss out on all the opportunities coz we are too afraid to put ourselves out there. We also fear disappointing others and becoming failures so if you don’t nip it out in the bud, perfectionism can often lead you do anxiety, stress and depression.
“Perfectionism is self destructive, simply because there is no such thing as perfect. Perfection is an unattainable goal”
-Brene Brown-
What yogic practices can you adapt to let go of perfectionism
Breathing practices
First resort is breath. Even before you do your asana practice, having a ritual to connect with your breath everyday is key to regulating your nervous system. It also helps with somatic release.
My go to breathing practices to practice everyday; check the voice note on how to perform it
4-7-8 breathing for 5 minutes everyday
Alternate nostril breathing for 10 minutes everyday
Yoga asana
Yoga asana helps to release the weight of perfectionism by encouraging us to embrace the present moment without judgment. It removes the pressure to “perform” and instead focuses on the process, allowing us to become comfortable with imperfection and gradual progress.
For me, challenging poses teach humility and patience, showing that mastery comes from consistent effort rather than immediate perfection. This mindset helps to break the cycle of seeking external validation, encouraging intrinsic joy in learning and growth.
My favourite poses to overcoming perfectionism
Balasana - Child Pose
Promotes surrender and relaxation , encouraging you to let go of expectations
Vriksasana - Tree Pose
Promotes balance and focus, teaching patience as you may wobble and regain stability.
Eka Pada Rajapoktasana - Pigeon Pose
Releases stored tension in the hips, symbolizing emotional release and acceptance.
Savasana - The corpse pose
Cultivates deep relaxation and acceptance, allowing space for non-judgmental reflection.
Let it go…
When you let go of perfectionism, you create space to be kinder and more compassionate with yourself. Yoga and meditation teach that your worth isn’t about perfect poses or flawless practice but in showing up and embracing where you are. Over time, these practices help you shed limiting beliefs, letting you live with more ease and joy. So, commit to nurturing yourself—breathe, move, be—and trust that this journey will transform not just how you practice but how you live.