These Challenging (Opportunistic) Times
I am writing regarding the current economic conditions that may be challenging some of us, but more to the point, I am writing regarding our current state of mind. To help maintain a sense of calm , I am suggesting that those of you who are yoga practitioners continue your practice both in the studio and at home. The benefits of doing so are many and measurable. But, even if your passion is something other than yoga, continue with that passion, do not forego it, as your passion brings you peace of mind.
What long-time yoga practitioners have known, and science is affirming, is that moving through yoga poses and breathing diaphragmatically on a regular basis is calming to the body as it stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system...the relaxation response. Adding meditation to the mix will soften your thoughts bringing about further relaxation as well as sharpening your ability to focus. These two effects alone are sufficient reason to continue your practice in a group setting as well as individually.
The economic experts say this and say that and you begin to worry. I say who cares what they say? What do you say? More importantly, what do you think?! And why? If we would learn to focus on that which we would choose to have, not that which we would choose not to have, we would feel better inside. The sooner we collectively understand this concept, the better our outcomes. The choice is ours.
To that end, we have the choice to make time in each day to devote to our selves to help maintain a sense of stability and balance in our lives. If you've never done yoga or meditation before, then at least learn how to breathe properly. The whole concept may be foreign and seem strange to you, but strange or not, it works. If it did not work, the National Institute of Health would not have devoted so much time and money to studying the breath and the benficial effects of yoga on our health. Ten minutes a day is all that is required for you to find improvement.
How? Observe your self (your thoughts and your movements) during your yoga practice. Observe your thoughts while breathing or meditating. If you notice panic and fear within while practicing your poses or observing your thoughts, you may find that you see that same fear in world about you; if you find peace and calm, your outer world will reflect that peace and calm.
You have the choice to focus on one of many things, but practicing yoga, breathing diaphragmatically and meditating (or focusing intently) are three easy steps. Give thought to what you think, then feel those thoughts. If you don't like the feelings you feel, then change your thoughts.
Do it. It works.