To feel or not to feel.
Feeling is a physical or emotional experience or awareness according to Cambridge Dictionary. What does it mean to you? It means a life for me. With all senses. Even beyond.
Double Pigeon Pose
Agnistambhasana
I just wanna feel!.
It's crucial to remember that practicing self-compassion in Yoga means being willing to take a step back, especially during poses we perceive as challenging. However, this doesn't mean halting our progress altogether. There's a delicate balance between showing self-compassion and pushing ourselves to grow.
As we navigate through poses that push our limits, such as hip-opening poses like the Double Pigeon, it's important to maintain awareness and send our breath to areas of tension. This mindful approach is where true development begins.
It's also essential to acknowledge that every day is different. Some days, we may feel more flexible and strong, while other days, our bodies might feel tighter or more fatigued. This natural ebb and flow is part of the journey.
The cover photo of this post perfectly captures the fluctuations we experience during yoga practice, particularly in challenging poses like the Double Pigeon. It serves as a reminder that progress is not always linear, but with patience, self-compassion, and consistent effort, we can continue to grow and evolve in our practice.
Bird Of Paradise Pose
Svarga dvijasana
Today's practice brought a valuable realization: I was striving for perfection in each pose on my mat, but my mind quickly filled with judgments. It was a familiar pattern, one I've encountered before. In that moment, I gently reminded myself, 'G, you're not fully present in your breath right now.' Recognizing this shift in awareness was a significant victory in itself.
I chose to acknowledge this moment as a success, a reminder to stay grounded and enjoy the journey. Reflecting on my progress over the past two years filled me with gratitude once again.
Moreover, I achieved a personal milestone today: successfully binding in the Birds of Paradise pose on my right side, holding it for a solid 3 or 5 seconds. It was a first for me, and I celebrated this progress with a note to myself.
Each step, no matter how small, is a testament to our growth and dedication to our practice. Today's experience serves as a gentle reminder to embrace the journey, celebrate our successes, and continue moving forward with gratitude and joy.
25 December 2022
Toronto/Canada