This weather has been amazing hasn't it? So much positivity comes with the sunshine and Spring. As new life emerges and a there's new hope and momentum.
Growth is such an important part of life. I remember my daughter's violin guru Dr. Suzuki being quoted as saying he'll practice everyday because 'One day I might be good'.
Isn't it brilliant to have that determination and enthusiasm for something? In fact Suzuki's method says that environment, rather than genes will determine success or failure. In other words anyone could learn to play from an early age. I'll always cherish taking my daughter Sadie to those ensemble groups with other 4 and 5 year olds.
Obviously it's not always like this as we take life's knocks and bumps and not all aspects of growth are good. But one thing I know myself is that if you have a 'project' or something to work towards it can create purpose. Call it drive, passion, determination, mojo, or simply self motivation. In yoga life force is called prana.
Prana is energy which is in every living thing. Prana contained it is a sign of vital health, well being and contentment. If prana isn't there or something is dissipated then it can be seen as sickness, poor health, anger, depression or other things which can hold you back. Of course as with a lot of ancient philosophy it is not as simple as that. Prana relates to our connection with our higher spiritual self too. Here's an excellent article if you want to dig a bit deeper https://yogainternational.com/article/view/understanding-prana
Having had Covid last week it certainly felt like prana had left my body for a few days, I was completely wiped out. Interestingly, as soon as I resumed yogaeverydamnday my energy levels resumed. I felt more positive.
I started to think a bit more about this and positive mind set. I saw links to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) which made me think it's basically how we're encouraged to practice yoga.
Turning up, having a go, never say never, put all the negativity and expectations to one side. Are all things I find myself saying when I'm teaching and practicing.
Like when I learned to jump back from crow to plank. I honestly never thought I would be able to do this until I changed my mindset. One day - I decided to leave expectations aside, and gave it a go. It didn't just happen and it wasn't easy. I'd been practicing for a long time. But my mind set had shifted. A light bulb moment!
When my sister suggested I 'repoint' the paving in our back garden last year. It felt like it was much too big a job, but then I thought why not - I'll give it a go. It was really hard work chipping out the old mortar with a hammer and chisel, bit very satisfying filling with ready mixed mortar. There were times I thought I'd bitten off more than I can chew - but I stayed with it and completed the job. It was a huge improvement.
Maybe this Spring you've got a few ideas of your own. Try channelling that inner energy. Set a project. Try a different way of practicing a yoga pose. Put negativity to one side. Have a go. Growth mindset. On and off the mat.
Namaste
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