Stand in Your Power: How Yoga, Ayurveda & Posture Shape Your Energy
- Candice Furubayashi
- Feb 16
- 3 min read
Have you ever noticed how your posture affects your confidence, your mood, even the way people respond to you?
Most of us go through life unaware of how our body language shapes our energy. When we slouch, collapse inward, or shrink ourselves, we send a message—not just to the world but to our own nervous system. Ayurveda teaches that posture influences our prana (life force), doshas (biological energies), and overall well-being.
Power posing is more than just a psychological trick—it’s an ancient practice that aligns perfectly with yoga and Ayurveda. By standing with intention, we shift not only our outer presence but also our inner state.
So, the real question is: Are you standing in your power or shrinking away from it?
The Science & Wisdom Behind Power Poses
Research suggests that holding expansive, open postures for just two minutes can increase confidence-boosting hormones and reduce stress. A notable study conducted at Harvard University by social psychologist Amy Cuddy found that adopting power poses can increase feelings of power and decrease stress levels by influencing our hormone levels. Specifically, the study showed that holding “high-power” poses (such as standing with arms spread wide or sitting with legs apart) for just two minutes can lead to higher testosterone levels (associated with power) and lower cortisol levels (associated with stress).
But Ayurveda and yoga have known this for centuries: how we hold ourselves directly affects our mental clarity, emotional state, and physical health.
This isn’t just about body language—it’s about balance. When your posture aligns with your dosha, you create a foundation for confidence, resilience, and vitality. Let’s break it down.
Your Dosha & The Power Pose You Need
1. Vata (Air & Ether) – Grounding & Stability
If you often feel scattered, anxious, or overstimulated, Vata energy may be running high. The best way to counteract this? Find your roots.
Your Power Poses:
Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II): Creates structure, steadiness, and focus.

Mountain Pose (Tadasana) with Hands on Hips: Expands the chest while keeping feet grounded.

Tree Pose (Vrikshasana): Strengthens balance and brings energy downward.

Why it works: These poses create stability and calm, counteracting Vata’s tendency toward restlessness.
2. Pitta (Fire & Water) – Cooling & Expansion
Pitta types are naturally confident and driven, but when they’re out of balance, that intensity can turn into stress or burnout. The key? Strength with softness.
Your Power Poses:
Reverse Warrior (Viparita Virabhadrasana): Opens the heart while keeping a strong foundation.

Goddess Pose (Utkata Konasana): A power stance that embodies both strength and fluidity.

Humble Warrior: Encourages surrender while maintaining confidence.

Why it works: These poses help Pittas channel their fire without overheating—so they can lead with both power and presence.
3. Kapha (Earth & Water) – Energizing & Uplifting
Kapha types are naturally grounded, but when out of balance, they can feel stuck or unmotivated. The answer? Ignite your inner fire.
Your Power Poses:
Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): Inspires action and momentum.

Chair Pose (Utkatasana): Builds heat, stamina, and strength.

Superman Pose (Viparita Shalabhasana): Lifts the chest and legs, creating an instant confidence boost.

Why it works: These poses shake off stagnation and get Kapha energy moving.
How to Use Power Poses in Daily Life
Before a Big Moment: Hold Warrior II for two minutes before a meeting, date, or tough conversation.
When You’re Feeling Off: Notice how you’re standing—adjust your posture to match the energy you want to embody.
During Your Yoga Practice: Intentionally choose poses that balance your dosha instead of just moving through a sequence.
Your Posture = Your Power
The way you stand isn’t just about looking confident—it’s about feeling confident. It’s about shifting your energy from uncertainty to grounded presence, from tension to flow, from heaviness to motivation.
So, next time you catch yourself shrinking or slouching, ask yourself: What energy do I want to embody right now?
Then, stand in it.
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