Finding Stillness

After becoming a mother I felt my figurative heart grow multiple sizes (picture the that scene at the end of the movie, “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas”).  My world in a way became so much simpler; all while, in another way, becoming so beautifully complicated.   There lies simplicity while looking at my son, and in that moment having an overwhelming sense of what love is.  Love in and of itself was meant to be simple.  It just is; there are no, “If only you did this,” “If you weren’t so that.”  Love is unconditional.  Within that one glance at my sweet child, I know I am playing the role I’m supposed to embody. Knowing the importance of my influence to this other human is empowering, terrifying, but overall there is such joy in being aware of the fact that I get to be someone who tells him he is precious, worthy, and so so loved.

This is being present.  This is what makes life worth while. 

On another note, after the fog of being a mom to a newborn began to lift, anxiety began to creep in.  My decisions are not just my own anymore. My decisions affect people.  People I love dearly.  I allowed my mind to process information that only served as a distraction.  Thoughts turned into worry; worry soon transitioning to doubt.  My yoga teacher spoke of a friend of hers who once said, “I know worrying works.  What I worry about never happens.” It’s true!  We often let the mind run wild while are bodies then wreak the havoc (stress, aches, pains), all while the things we are dwelling on hold no relevance or validity.

This is not being present.  This is what makes life tiresome and a struggle.

Yoga has a great way of shifting the mind to stillness.  It is a great reminder to shut out the excess, the unimportant, and to let go of things we cannot control.  I am not saying, do not care for those around the world or don’t empathize with those outside of yourself that are hurting, but I am saying DO NOT allow the mind to be cluttered.  If the mind is noisy, life quickly can become overwhelming.

Next time, before hitting the mat, think of something/someone you or grateful for. 

Perhaps turn the corners of your mouth slightly up, and allow yourself to find stillness; it leads to now.  It is a choice.

Namaste.

Be.

Yoga means something different to everyone.  To some it’s a way of life, something you take off the mat and incorporate in every aspect of your daily routine; To others it’s a fad, something only temporary you visit on Wednesday nights at 7pm…near the door…fifteen minutes early (no one better be in YOUR spot!).  Whatever your mindset, whatever your reason it’s okay. Getting on your mat, practicing when you can, or when you feel like it, is enough.  As a yoga teacher it isn’t my job to criticize or question your motives for coming to class.  I’m proud of you for being there, for showing up for that hour, and simply being on your mat.  That’s all anyone can ever ask of us isn’t it?  “Being” there.  Truly setting an intention to be present for those who need our love most.  Yoga has taught me just that.   It’s made things less foggy, and is a consistent reminder to “be.”  To be the best wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, I, Allison, can be.  I fall short often, but allowing change to occur, retaining the desire to improve, and getting on the mat is what matters.  Keep practicing, yogis! I’ll be right alongside with ya ;)