Yoga is a Catalyst
In her December newsletter, Anne Phyfe Palmer of the 8 Limbs Yoga Centers writes about why we do yoga. They asked their teacher trainees this question, and got answers like “because it feels good,” “it helps me to know myself,” and “sanity.” Teacher Jenny Hayo offered the unifying answer “to alleviate suffering.” This got me thinking about why I do yoga. I agree with all of these reasons, but I’d like to add one more that’s been important to me: yoga is a catalyst.
In my experience, yoga sheds a powerful light on everything that is going on in your life, often inspiring change. The mat is a safe space to work through thoughts and emotions, putting things in perspective. Really listening to what comes up when you practice allows you to see mental and physical patterns that are no longer serving you. Let’s look at the dictionary definition of catalyst:
From Merriam-Webster: cat·a·lyst
1: a substance that enables a chemical reaction to proceed at a usually faster rate or under different conditions (as at a lower temperature) than otherwise possible
2: an agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action
Yoga is the agent that provokes or speeds significant change or action. A regular practice helps us make decisions more in line with our authentic self and not to satisfy our ego or external expectations. What changes has yoga inspired you to make?
I’ve been thinking about this a lot this morning. Yoga is becoming more and more vital in my life. Not just because it’s good exercise & creates relaxation, but because of everything you describe. It makes everything clearer and puts it all in perspective. I start realizing what’s important and needs attention, and what doesn’t (and maybe I’ve been giving too much attention to).
Great post!
Well written and insightful post Heidi! I look forward to checking back on your blog to see how you are doing! I believe yoga certainly can serve as a catalyst. I personally practice for three reasons that touch on mind, body, and soul. Mentally it brings me back to me center, physically it gives me much need flexibility to support other functions in my life, and my soul is always moved by the sharing of energy in a room full of practitioners seeking similar experiences. If you love yoga and you love travel, I think you and your audience may really enjoy the unique retreats we offer at Flowing Spirit Journeys.
Hi, just found your blog, nice read..I think doing yoga has inspired me to make everyday changes to my life to live simply and without the stress.
Yoga just makes you calmer and also makes my mind clear-allowing me to realise what is really important in life..