I feel so much is missed by not looking, really not looking. Whether that's on a daily dog walk, a trip somewhere, or maybe metaphorically too. It's something close to my heart. A lot of it driven by a constant desire for stimulation, whether it be on social media, the latest podcast, music stream or maybe just catching up with a friend or family on our limitless phone call contracts.
You may be aware that I spent the best part of 15 years in fashion as a designer and it's in my DNA to look. I've always appreciated quality over quantity. Well made, functional but beautiful things. Whether it's day to day useful things like a kettle or a really nice hand wash. I hate clutter and would live with a lot less if I could. One of my mantras is the design is the the detail.
I always remember being at a conference as a fashion student with Paul Smith and him saying, 'You can find inspiration in anything'. If you look.
As we try to catch up with all the damage we have done to our world with excess consumerism things are starting to take an about turn.
I love Nathan Williams' Kinfolk books and have referred to the idea of 'Slow Living' before. He describes Slow Living as 'Reclaiming our time and devoting it to what brings us joy and meaning. It's not about forgoing our most beloved belongings - it's about identifying what and whom, we simply cannot live without'.
For me this sits alongside my own yoga and teaching.
In my last blog I spoke about 'zooming out', to be able to SEE a situation better. One of my lovely clients said this was like 'Upeksa' which is one of four immeasurable virtues in the Buddhist tradition.
Upeksha is the fourth of the Buddhist Brahmaviravas ("four immeasurables"), which are also mentioned in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. It is a state of mind taught both in Buddhism and in yoga. Although it is sometimes translated as indifference, the correct translation is equanimity. Upeksha means leading a balanced life, removing intolerance and caring for all equally. Upeksha teaches the practice of non-attachment, an important element in yoga practice both on and off the mat.
Yoga has most definitely helped me keep some sort of balance and something I feel privileged to share with others.
This blog has been inspired by Mental Health Awareness Week 15-21st May. There are loads of charities and information. One I found was really good with lots of support for their campaign . A 'Just' Anxiety https://mentalhealth-uk.org/information-and-support/
One of their tips to deal with anxiety is about LOOKING. Which ties in with yoga and is about ultimately 'being present to the journey'.
So perhaps next time you're out and about keep your phone and Airpods in your pocket and have a look around. There IS inspiration in everything.
I hope this encourages you see things a bit more. And maybe you'll get why I like yoga mats in straight lines in class!
Hope to see you soon.
Namaste.
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