Everyday Yoga
by Michelle Laxton, MA, RYTMarch 14, 2009
One of my favorite yoga teachers ends each class by advising her students to “find ways to take yoga off your mat and into your world.” Every day opportunities arise to apply off-the-mat yoga, but on those days when life is particularly turbulent a connection to your practice can offer clarity and a sense of perspective. Today, I received disappointing news and was given one such opportunity.
After several months of house hunting and a handful of rejected offers, my realtor sent my husband and me an email letting us know that of the 28 bids submitted, ours had been accepted and we'd soon own a home in San Diego, a feat we never thought possible. Of course, we jumped up and down, called our parents, and began planning which room to renovate first. Midway through sketching blueprints of the kitchen, our realtor phoned to inform us that he had misread the seller's email and our bid had been accepted as one of five back-up offers.
My heart sank and a flood of disappointment washed over me. I wanted to get angry, ream out our realtor, and curse the wretched San Diego housing market, but before I could even open my mouth, my yoga took over. I mentally stepped back to witness the feelings of frustration and dashed hopes flow from my head down to my heart and back up again. After a few minutes, I was more intrigued by the effects of the situation on my emotional and energetic state than absorbed in losing the house. Soon after, I began to see my relationship with the house for what it was: an attachment that took me away from the present, shook me off balance, and ultimately caused me pain.
Still, recognizing that I had formed a strong attachment didn't stop me from wanting to sulk. I was unhappy and unwilling to release the loss of the house, which felt all too fresh. Instead, I granted myself time to cycle through the emotions and more quickly than I expected, the frustration, anger, and disappointment diffused.
Every day during my on-the-mat yoga, I get curious about the inner workings of my mind, body, and heart. In each posture, I watch how my breath varies, how my muscles react, and how that indescribable energy at my heart changes. I can't say that I know why these fluctuations occur, but just by watching I believe I'm learning something about myself. Next time you feel your blood boiling, your heart racing, or your cheeks flushing, take a moment to be present with those sensations. Perhaps, this period of observation will offer insight into your experience, slow the rush of emotions, and leave you with a new perspective.