Imagine arriving early to a yoga class. You set up your space, touch base with your teacher about life, settle down with your own movements and breath connecting to yourself and the space, and then class begins. You move through your practice noticing the different sensations in your body, how you connect with your breath, the challenges that arise, the settling into yourself, finding what you needed that day, the beatutiful serenity that washes over you in Savasana, and then you experience the blissful yoga brain at the end of class. This is where the magic begins as you and other students share your experience with eachother and the teacher in a small window before heading back out into life.
Last night{Friday) I shared in this beautiful moment with my weekly private session student at the end of her session. She is new to yoga and this was her 3rd session. We were sharing our observations about her progress, and after just 3 sessions she was surprised how far she has come. Her stability has increased, confidence is growing, breath is deepening, and she is connecting with herself beyond what she expected. We began talking about how movement affects us as a whole.
Movement is amazing! We do it all the time, but when we move consciously and with intention we become more aware. Yoga is so much more than movement, but its through this movement that we begin to connect with ourselves on a deeper level. Have you ever had an emotion or sensation that arose during your practice that you couldnt explain? Our bodies are vessels that contain all of our working parts, but emotions are stored here as well. As we move our bodies during yoga it becomes a moving meditation connecting breath to movement. This gives us an internal focal point for our subconscious to process what is being held in our body, mind, & soul.
Some Asanas evoke big emotions while others are more subtle.
For example, a heart-opening pose like Camel Pose (Ustrasana) might evoke feelings of vulnerability or openness. As we arch our spine and lift our hearts towards the sky, we invite in courage and receptivity, while simultaneously releasing any tension held in the chest.
Similarly, forward folds, such as Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend), can bring forth a sense of surrender and introspection. As we bow forward, folding into ourselves, we create space to let go of any burdens weighing heavily on our hearts and minds.
Through mindful movement and breath awareness, we cultivate a sense of presence that allows us to witness these emotions without judgment or attachment. Instead of pushing them away or suppressing them, we learn to embrace them with compassion and curiosity.
How many times have we stuffed down emotions to feel at a later date, or something happened that you didn't want to or couldnt deal with in the moment? These get stored in our bodies, and over time can start to affect our relationships or health. During your next yoga class notice how your body feels in each pose. Where do you feel tension, length, and/or ease? Breath into those areas and notice how you feel. Has your breathing or heart rate changed? Can you identify an emotion? Acknowledge the feelings that arise, and give yourself permission to feel, even if you dont know their origin. Maybe explore a faster or slower paced class and notice how you and your body feel. What arises? Explore how different types of movement feels in your body and notice what comes up.
The conversation Friday was amazing and I wish I could replicate it to share fully, but I am not overly articulate consistently, conversation doesnt always flow with ease, and am human. Being an introvert and a yoga teacher can be challenging as I have to press the limits of my comfort zone "Getting comfortable with being uncomfortable." I offer small group classes and one on one sessions so I can offer the best experience for my students. This allows for a more intimate and personal experience, and a safe place to practice for other introverts. Its moments like this before and after class that allow students and teachers to share and connect deeper creating the magic.
Yoga's mindful movement offers an opportunity for us to reconnect with ourselves, heal, and grow. Our teachers are mere guides on the journey offering suggestions, encouragement, and space as we explore our curiousity about ourselves, life, and beyond. I invite you to get curious the next time you step onto the mat. Embrace the magic that unfolds within you, and let your yoga practice be a source of inspiration, healing and connection in your life.
May your practice be a beacon of light and love, guiding you towards greater peace, joy, and wholeness in your life.
Namaste.
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