Yoga and engineering share many similarities, said Padma Shri Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. "Just as an engineer constructs a structure with precision and symmetry, yoga applies the same principles to the human body," Sheikha AJ Al Sabah said while speaking at an international conference organized by the Institute of Engineers India (IEI) Kuwait Chapter in association with the Kuwait Society of Engineers at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Kuwait.
Yoga, an ancient practice, focuses on harmonizing the body and mind. It incorporates the same engineering principles of focus, resilience, and adaptability. "As an engineer builds bridges and skyscrapers, a yogi cultivates awareness, strength, and resilience within their own body. Both fields demand dedication, creativity, and the ability to withstand pressure," Sheikha explained.
Sheikha Shaikha Ali Al-Jaber Al-Sabah is the first Kuwaiti national to receive India’s prestigious civilian award, the 'Padma Shri.'
"In yoga, each pose—known as an asana—follows precise angles, symmetry, and balance. Just as a building's stability depends on these factors, our bodies also experience discomfort when these are not aligned," she noted. Engineers ensure the stability of their structures, and similarly, yoga practitioners apply the same principles to balance their bodies. "As engineers respect the laws of physics, yogis respect the natural laws governing the human body."
She further elaborated that a skilled engineer ensures a structure is resilient against external pressures, much like how yogis train their bodies and minds to endure stress. "Engineers construct skyscrapers in Kuwait that withstand forces such as wind and rain, and yoga teaches us to attain stability, strength, and flexibility under various conditions."
Additionally, Sheikha highlighted that yoga and engineering both emphasize efficiency and problem-solving. "Engineers break down problems into components to find solutions. Similarly, yoga encourages mindfulness—absorbing our body’s signals, staying aware, and adapting accordingly."
"At first glance, yoga and engineering may seem unrelated, but when we look at it deeper, they share the same fundamental principles," Sheikha concluded.
Sheikha is also credited with founding Kuwait’s first licensed yoga studio, ‘Daratma.’ The studio’s name combines the Arabic word ‘Dar’ (home) with the Sanskrit word ‘Atma’ (soul), symbolizing a deep connection with India.
The event was attended by several dignitaries from India and Kuwait, including Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awardee Dr. Sivathanu Pillai, Assistant Under Secretary from the Ministry of Public Works Engr. Ahmed Al Saleh, officials from the Kuwait Society of Engineers, IEI representatives, and other distinguished guests. "While we Engineers are working to save the earth, same time we need to safe guard our health also. That is why we invited this great Yoga practitioner in Kuwait, who recently received Padma Shri for promoting Yoga in Kuwait, the Conference Chairman Engineer Mahendhran said."