The air is crisper, the smell of spice is in the air, and the leaves are turning their brilliant shades of gold and yellow. Fall has descended on Fort Collins and the transition seemed to happen overnight. As nature begins to turn inward in preparation for the winter season, we can find inspiration in the mindful and methodical transition that seems to take place all around us.
Transitions are often times of uncertainty. Letting go of what no longer serves us, like leaves falling from branches, can be more difficult than we might expect. Holding on is comfortable, it’s familiar — it’s safe. Shedding our layers may leave us bare and vulnerable to the world around us, exposing us to the possibility of failure, hurt, or hardships. But just as nature does, we must let go in order to reemerge as something more beautiful. By trusting the process of transitions and leaning into the discomforts of uncertainty, we may find a deeper connection to our true selves.
Moving through transitions with presence and awareness enables us to honor endings, celebrate beginnings, and simply be comfortable while we are in the space between. This translates to our yoga practice through asana as well as in our lives. Many times we may find ourselves looking ahead to the next posture or moment without true consideration for the process of getting there. We fumble through, align ourselves in the pose, and once there, again fill our heads with “what’s next?”.
Perhaps you find yourself wondering “what’s next?” in regards to your life as well? When we settle in a new job we start to think about promotions. When we find love in our life we think about marriage or starting a family. When we start on a trail we think about getting to the top of the mountain. We are a product of society’s infatuation with the end results and while that isn’t necessarily bad, it misses the importance and the beauty of transitions. As they say, it isn’t the destination, but the journey, right? Well, maybe it is about all of it. Experiencing each piece wholly and fully and with gratitude and mindfulness.
The next time you find yourself in asana, take a moment to slow down and move through the transitions with purpose. Move intentionally as you lift your arms in Utkatasana (chair) pose. Feel each muscle and ligament aid in your movement. Focus on your breath and you send your hips into Adho Mukha Svanasana (downward-facing dog). Float up as though you are moving through honey. Speak your mantra with each breath and connect it to your transitions.
Let nature be your guide as you honor the space between postures and periods of change in your life. Take courage in facing the uncertainty of letting “what’s next” go. Be present in the transition and you may find insurmountable beauty and wisdom in the process.
Don’t miss some upcoming opportunities to align and focus on transition. Join us at Holistic Yoga School for weekly classes, workshops, retreats, and teacher training!
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