The beauty of yoga is that the practice speaks many languages. Despite our varied interests and ability levels, nearly everyone can expect that time spent on their mats will inevitably bring about positive changes in their lives. Sometimes these changes are simple and experienced primarily in the physical body, through the practice of asana. As our hips open and soften, we walk away feeling a little lighter, a little longer and somehow more at peace with our emotions. Other times these changes take place on a deeper, more introspective level. Perhaps a phrase or mantra cued by the instructor elicits a deep knowing and definitive answer to a conflict with which we have been struggling. During these moments, perhaps we walk away knowing what it is we truly want and how to strategically invite joy into our lives. These experiences are the seemingly small, yet profound gifts offered by and through our yoga practice.
In order for us to experience these shifts, whether on a physical or spiritual level, we must feel at ease with our practice, with the instructor and with the space in which we are practicing. We must feel that it is safe to let go and to open, to surrender to the practice, and ultimately to the light within us.
Finding a space that feels sacred often looks and feels vastly different for us all. For some of us, we find that the predictable structure and flow of a Bikram or Ashtanga series feels safe. We know what to expect and within that predictability, we can let go, trusting the process. For others, the delightful dance of a vinyasa class feels uplifting and liberating, unleashing our hidden creative potential; in the flow, we just dance. For others, the sacred space is created not by the specific practice, but by a teacher who is kind, compassionate and offers sweet adjustments. Perhaps the teacher speaks in a way which inspires us to delve deeper into our breath or to surrender to the pace of our body. Perhaps our teacher embodies the spirit of yoga and warms our spirits with his or her presence.
Inevitably we will each find a space that resonates with us, allowing us to deepen into our yoga in the ways we need most. The lessons we learn from our mats are many, and the process is never-ending; perhaps that is its true beauty. As we embark upon our journeys, may we continue to explore the spaces that feel most sacred to our souls.
Holistic Yoga School is pleased to announce that we have officially moved into our new Sacred Space at the Solarium!
You are truly a gifted writer. Thanks for sharing your articulate thoughts.