My daughter and son-in-law have just returned from a beautiful, relaxing holiday. He said to me, ‘Carole, I’m desperately trying to hang on to the feeling of being totally relaxed’. I completely get what he’s saying, and we’re like that after a yoga practice too, aren’t we? How do we hold on to that feeling of peace, that feeling of bliss?
When you come back from being away, the world crowds back in. We feel the tension all around us. We feel the expectations and demands of everyday life. It doesn’t take long for the peace to be shattered. Yoga, though, hopes that by achieving the peace and bliss on a regular basis, it can eventually become the norm. When you live more of your life in a peaceful way, and less of your life in tension, you find your inner balance. You stay centred.
It’s useful to become aware of what pulls you out of your centre. Is it being too busy? Is it other people? Is it the nagging voice in your head? Is it fatigue? Knowing what disturbs your peace gives you an opportunity to address it. So, the second step is to come up with strategies to find your way quickly back into balance. Retreating to the loo is often a good ploy in a busy household! Or going out to water the garden, walk the dog, or deadhead the roses. Sometimes a whiff of lavender oil is enough, or humming a chant. Find what works for you…think of it as first aid for the spirit.
Loving yourself is a good place to start. When you love yourself you recognise that you deserve peace. You deserve bliss. And when you spend more time centred than not, you’ll notice the difference that that makes to those around you. Everyone wins!
OM Shanti Shanti Shanti….OM Peace Peace Peace
Yoga Prescribed 