In this inspiring article from the LCM Archive yoga teacher Emily Swank invites us to consider yoga as a way of being…
We all want to “be” – to be loved, to be peaceful, to be successful, to be better looking, to be richer. Whatever it is, we struggle to “be”.
As a student of yoga, psychology and life, I have observed my body, mind and soul and what it means to be with these parts of me. Take the body: I have learned that my body is my greatest friend. It holds me upright even when I feel down, it walks me forward, even when I am afraid. It can laugh and cry at a moments notice and heal when I am hurt. It can sleep when I am tired and awaken to a new day, refreshed and renewed.
Then there is my mind which seems to have no patience for constriction or duty. My mind can stay on task, but only when I am thoughtful. It would rather race around like the wind – swirling and gusting and quieting on its own terms. It does not like to be told what to do, and will forever be dipping into the pool of worries for delight. It is my greatest ally and my harshest critic.
And in the midst lies my soul. It rushes in when called on and honors my longings, my fears, my excitement, and my needs until I am satisfied. It is always there for me and knows me better than I know myself. It is my past, present and future glowing in a glorious, gracious, patient light that lies within. It flickers up, hoping I might take notice, and quietly waits to see. On occasion, when I am quite present and well, I cannot help but feel my soul calling me, supporting me, loving me – all of me.
The mind, body and soul are part of each and every one of us. And yet, often we go days without really taking notice, or care, or reverence for that which has been with us since the beginning. Yoga is that moment of reverence offered for you.
It invites you to go to the places of pure joy and potential, as well as the places of hurt and regret. In yoga, we stretch and reach our bodies – striving for flexibility, strength and health. In yoga, we stretch and reach our minds – striving for peace, compassion and understanding. And of course, we honor our souls – our purpose, our journey, listening inward, trusting and surrendering.
View the original article in the LCM Archive HERE