How Does Yoga Transform Us Off of the Mat?
It is no surprise that as a yoga teacher I am often engaged in conversations about yoga. When I describe my experiences people regularly ask me: “… and how does yoga help you in life?” This question always makes me pause for a second.Most people are introduced to yoga through physical/asana practice. Even this kind practice has a lot of potential for the seed of change to start growing inside. There are challenges on the mat just as there are in life. Some people may not be physically strong, others may have little flexibility and for others many postures look too intimidating. Nonetheless, as students of yoga, we face these limitations. We keep coming to our mats, we continue to practice and over time what was not available to us before becomes possible. Each time the body exceeds limitations imposed by the mind, we begin to believe that we are more than what we thought we were. Through our practice, we become empowered.
Consistent asana practice develops body awareness. We may begin to start feeling how our diet impacts our practice and what products make us feel heavy or stiff. The taste is no longer the only criteria for food choices, instead we want to feel good after eating as well. Over time we may naturally shift towards healthier eating choices. There was a time when I was unable to put down a box of chocolates until I finished every single chocolate. Don’t get me wrong…I still enjoy chocolate, but now I no longer obsess over it and I am much more aware of how I might feel after finishing an entire box.
When we learn to move with the breath on the mat, we develop our internal focus and our asana practice becomes a moving meditation. Once we leave our mats, this focus does not disappear. Quite beautifully, it can continue as a grounding source in stressful situations. Yoga does not guarantee that you will not have any stress in your life, but it allows you to respond to it in a different way. This sense of inner focus and stability increases the space between action and reaction. Instead of instantly responding to anything that we encounter, we use this extra space to choose how to act. This allows me to keep my inner peace for a longer period and refrain from unnecessary conflicts.
If you want to experience yoga for yourself, join our free yoga event on January 26th 2019 at 10:00 a.m. Absolutely everyone is welcome! Sign up and reserve your spot here!
This post was written by Iryna Lymar. Iryna teaches Vinyasa Flow every Saturday at 10AM.
