Life Lessons from Yoga
by Sally ~ October 5th, 2009. Filed under: Happiness, Inspiration, Life Lessons.
An unexpected bonus from my exercise routine has been the life lessons from yoga that I have received.
I added yoga to my routine hoping to improve my flexibility and to relax my tight muscles. It has done that and so much more.
Peace of Mind
It feels good physically but the biggest difference is the mental state it puts me in that keeps me coming back for more. I take deep slow breaths, pay attention to what I’m doing, and relax. It connects my mind, body, and spirit at the same time which gives me peace of mind, at least for a little while.
It’s easy to get distracted by our busy lives. Taking time to be in a relaxed state can do wonders.
It’s Ok to Make Mistakes
As if that wasn’t enough, yoga is teaching me is that it’s ok to make mistakes. It is a practice, and will continue to be. There are several things I don’t do well at all, but I keep trying. That is big for me. The instructor in her soothing, melodic voice, reminds you to forget about struggling and to come back to a resting pose and start over again.
It’s not about doing things perfectly. It’s just about trying to do the best you can in that moment.
A Balancing Act
Another life lesson from yoga is balance. One day I have pretty good balance. Another day, I am wobbling all over the place. It is a matter of adjusting and readjusting until it feels right for that moment.
Isn’t that what life balance is all about too? Circumstances change and you adjust and readjust until it feels right for now.
Then there is the balance between focusing and working hard and coming back to rest and regroup in between yoga poses.
Instead of pushing yourself for hours every day, you may find you’ll be more focused and efficient by working hard, then pausing to relax for a few minutes, and alternating between work and rest.
Sometimes we will close with the gesture of no fear. I love that this gesture is about balancing giving and receiving.
Practice Focusing
When my mind drifts, and it will, I simply try again to focus on doing the pose the best I can for that day. It helps me to practice focusing.
When you are working or doing anything and you get distracted, try to practice just doing that one thing for the moment the best you can in that moment.
So, in a nutshell, here are the life lessons from yoga:
- It feels good to slow down at least for a little while.
- It’s ok to do my best, make mistakes, and start again. Do Overs are allowed.
- It’s ok to readjust until it feels right.
- Find a balance between working hard and resting to recharge often
- Find a balance between trying and letting go
- Find a balance between giving and receiving
- Practice focusing on what you are doing now.
- Do the best you can in the moment. There will be another one coming soon.
These are lessons that can be applied to all areas of your life such as your creativity, business or career, parenting, relationships, etc.
You may also want to read about Life Lessons from Our Dog.
October 10th, 2009 at 10:45 am
Hi,
Hope you are all doing well.
Thanks so much for these tidbits. I find that all of the encouragement and
understanding you give is such a wonderful help. You always seem to have
just the right information at just the right time for me. I feel you are truly a
kindred spirit and I so enjoy getting to know you!
Love always,
Cris
October 10th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Thanks Cris! I am so glad you find the articles and information helpful. That is what keeps me going! Please feel free to let me know any topics and challenges, etc. that you would like to me to write about.