May & June theme: Strength
Two months ago, when we were embarking on the Strength theme for our classes, I was curious to see how much of my own personal focus will be directed at the physical strength. It is totally normal to want to drive your asana practice forward, to attempt more advanced variations, poses and transitions. Sometimes, a seeming lack of evidence of that physical progress can make us feel like we’re wasting our time, not pushing ourselves, not working hard enough. How do we demonstrate to others and ourselves that we have been practicing yoga for years? What do we actually have to show for all the hours spent on the mat? What is the bloody point if after all this time, the crow or the headstand (not to mention the splits!) are still beyond our reach?!
This is obviously an autobiographical reflection 😅 My ego often wants to take the reins and sometimes it succeeds. If you relate to this, allow me to remind you of all the other aspects of strength we have also been developing in our practice.
Self-study - yoga is an inside job, no question about it. Even though it can be uncomfortable, confrontational and even tedious, the true progress and discovery is only found when we’re paying attention to ourselves
Honesty - consequence of self-study, showing us how things really are in the body, mind and spirit. We can only move forward from a place of truth
Patience and mindfulness - let’s be frank, sometimes being on the mat is simply boring. Inhale, exhale, same sequences… But in the current times, I believe that „boredom” is hugely underestimated. Repetitive actions during which we manage to remain fully present („fully” being the imperative word here), allow us to experience a sense of flow, zen like state where we’re neither ecstatic nor depressed. True equanimity that is very healing
Perseverance - building any strength starts with a mental decision and effort. Showing up on your mat consistently helps to build discipline which benefits us in all kinds of ways
Emotional intelligence - it takes strength to „keep going” when things are hard but it also takes strength to recognise when it is wiser to stop, to say no. When it is important to protect our boundaries. Without guilt, shame or fear
And finally, one of the elements that has resonated with me most over the last two months of practicing with you, is the strength of friendships and community. Strength of kindness and compassion. Strength of true human connection.
I hope to see you all in the near future, in the meantime I wish you health and prosperity ❤️
Sabina xxx