“I will be extremely busy in the next several months so I can’t continue coming to yoga.”
“Too much is going on at the moment so can’t make it to yoga.”
“I will have to stop coming to yoga until get through this hard period.”
There are all sentences that I have heard at one point or another. And I completely understand, I have been there myself. Illness, loss, grief, job changes, difficult relationships. Sometimes everything is up in the air so much so that it is very hard to sustain even a simple resemblance of normalcy, routine, balance or calm.
And I have noticed for myself and for others, these are the times that we are most inclined to let go of the things that sustain us.
t’s a natural human reaction. When faced with overwhelming stress, we often go into survival mode, prioritising immediate tasks and perceived necessities. We cut away what we believe is “extra,” and unfortunately, that often includes practices like yoga that actually sustain us. We convince ourselves that we don’t have the time, the energy, or the mental space for it. But it’s during these very difficult times that we need yoga the most.
When a storm hits, you don’t abandon your shelter. You reinforce it. Yoga, in essence, is your internal shelter. It provides a sanctuary for your mind and body amidst the chaos. It’s not about escaping the challenges, but about building resilience to face them.
Here’s how yoga can be your anchor in the storm:
- Grounding and Centring: When everything feels chaotic, yoga’s focus on breath and mindful movement brings you back to the present moment. It helps you reconnect with your body and find a sense of stability amidst the turmoil.
- Stress Reduction: Yoga is a powerful tool for managing stress. The combination of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation helps to calm the nervous system, reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
- Emotional Regulation: Difficult times often bring up a whirlwind of emotions. Yoga provides a safe space to acknowledge and process these emotions without judgment. It helps you cultivate self-awareness and develop healthy coping mechanisms.
- Physical Release: Stress and tension often manifest physically in the body. Yoga postures can help ease muscle tension and reduce aches and pains.
- Mental Clarity: By calming the mind, yoga can help you gain clarity and perspective. It allows you to step back from the chaos and see things more objectively.
- Building Resilience: Regular yoga practice strengthens your mind-body connection, building resilience and emotional fortitude. It equips you with the tools to navigate challenges with greater ease and grace.
The truth is, even a few minutes of mindful breathing, a gentle stretch, or a short meditation can make a significant difference. The key is to find what works for you and to make it a consistent part of your routine, even when—especially when—life gets tough.
Yoga is a tool to help you navigate the challenges you’re facing. It’s not about adding another task to your already overflowing plate, but about creating space for yourself to breathe, to integrate, and to find your inner strength.
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