I have had the feeling to write on my blog again more and more lately with everything going on in the world, and today the word “svadhyaya” came to me. I couldn’t think of anything better to write about during this time, svadhyaya is the study by and of oneself. The Path of the Yoga Sutras states that the first steps toward self-improvement and self-refinement is by looking at ourselves honestly and objectively. I don’t know about you but this isolation that has suddenly come into our lives with each day is becoming more of a “normal” feeling that has brought with it the opportunity to really do some self work. I have found myself being more curious about my path, my opportunities and the blessing that is this sudden freedom even in a world crisis. I am a glass half full kind of person so I am always looking for the silver lining. So svadhyaya is the perfect word for my isolated life right now. I have begun to move in new directions that I may have been more afraid to do so before all this. For one - online teaching, talk about stepping out of my comfort zone. Even though I was so nervous and afraid I also felt so liberated in being pushed immediately into new territory without giving that negative voice a chance to tell me otherwise. Change and growth is such a beautiful process. And that’s what I want to encourage in my message today, for each of you to take a step back and look at what opportunities are in your way as apposed to obstacles. Embrace technology right now, there are so many yogis/teachers appearing from behind the curtains, and it is so incredible to be a witness to all the creativity taking place!
Maybe you have been to afraid to take that class, maybe you felt you were not fit or strong enough, like you wouldn’t fit in. I can’t even tell you how many times in my life I have held back from fear of judgment or not being good enough, and it has been through my journey of Yoga that I have healed my negative thoughts and have grown strong self belief. Use this time to take the class online that you always secretly wanted to so that when all things return to normal once again - because they will - you are radiating so much confidence and self belief that stepping into the room is no longer scary. Use this time to do the work, to sort your thoughts and emotions, to clear the clutter of the mind and to create space for all the greatness and potential you hold.
Feelings of uncertainty are high, the media is exploding creating panic and there is a general sense of chaos in the air. Breathe. Take a deep breath right now, let it go. Nothing is permanent, not even this moment right now. Take care of your mind and body during this time so much so that it becomes a part of your journey beyond isolation. Find time each day, even if it is just a few minutes to meditate or just sit quietly for a little bit, journal, write your thoughts and emotions down and at the end of each day read them again with a clearer mind and decide what is worth holding onto and what can be let go of. Get outdoors!!! Move your body, endorphins are such an incredible thing that keeps spirits high and thoughts more rational.
Know that this too shall pass, observe and adjust in a way that best suits you and your lifestyle, you are the author of this story and this is just a chapter in it, what would you like it to say, how would you like to enter into the new chapter ahead?
Namaste xx