"What Memories for Mud to Have?!"

I put off a post about what has been the most positive addition to my life in the last year because approachable words about spiritual practices don't come easily and probably shouldn't. It has been too long since my last post, so in keeping with my New Year's Resolution in the face of lack of inspiration, I resort to list format... again.

5 Things I have Learned from Yoga

 

1. Don't Push

Ambitions and pride are the American way. I think many of us fall into unhealthful habits as a result of countering the society-imposed stressors of long-term achievement with temporary cheap thrills like television and fast food. Success is what happens when you are certain that the decisions you make are consistent and sustainable. I for one am tired of living my life from one self-imposed injury and botched self-medication to the next.

 

2. Be Patient

Change takes time. This seems like a no-brainer, but scrambling for a quick fix is a major temptation. Part of building a good relationship with yourself and others is taking time to observe the small triumphs. Significant negative effects take time to manifest as well. You had an off-day? Big deal.

 

3. Breath

There are small tricks to creating the space you need to maintain concentration. A controlled breath is always accessible to us. Inhaling takes in oxygen as fuel, exhaling releases poisonous waste. This is good. When we are tense the tendency is to hold our breath or breath erratically. This perpetuates a response called flight or fight, which is becoming obsolete in modern society. Take advantage of this moment of distraction and a chance to get a grip. "This is my breath, my chest, my space. What am I doing RIGHT NOW?"

 

4. "The Divine in me..."

In the growing space between beating myself up for what I am not and what I could be if..., there is peace. The more time I spend here, the less threatening my environment seems and more my understanding of purpose becomes obsolete. I find myself observing my reactions and appreciating who "I am." Sometimes I surprise myself.

5. "...is truly honored and inspired by the Divine in each of you."

Others like different things. I feel lucky to have met so many people and see the ways the approach to living can vary. A yoga class is not intended to be a competition and life doesn't have to be either. It is special characteristics of others that help me believe I can grow. I feel honored that my own progress has the potential to do that for others.


Namaste ;)