To accept someone the way they are and accept myself, has been a journey that still continues. Yoga is a big part of that journey. To be honest, part of me wanted to punch this man in the face, but the other part knew I needed to deal with my feelings in a healthier way. This is not always easy, and I definitely have days (or weeks!) where the punch in the face sure looks good tempting.
Either way, at some point, we all have to live with our own emotions and thoughts. In order to allow my feelings to flow and find openness (if not love) in my heart for this man, I found the following practice useful.
Centering
Take a seat and focus on the inhales and exhales. This will bring you to the present moment. If a thought comes into the mind not related to the breath, simply say "breath" as you return focus to it. If an emotion is strong, feel it and notice it without the accompanying thoughts. See the emotion as a vibration and not a definition of who you are or the "fault" of someone else. Just a vibration or form of energy. Stay with this 3-10 minutes.
Asanas (Postures)
Warm up the body by moving the joints. Do this to the rhythm of your breath.
Move slowly through a couple of sun salutations with the intention to have the breath lead the motion every step of the way. Ujjayi breath is advised if you are very comfortable with it.
Crescent pose (Lateral Mountain). From standing with toes pointing forward and inhale the left arm overhead; right arm at your side. Exhale and reach the top (left) arm far to the right; the hips may sway slightly to the left. Repeat on the other side.
Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I) with the hands clasped behind your back. Visualize a bright light shining in all directions out of your heart center as the bottom of the sacrum releases away from the low back. Repeat on both sides.
Standing half frog (standing on one leg with the other leg bent and holding onto its foot behind you) or Dancer (Natarajasana). Again focus on the openness and freedom in the heart. Let it shine with a sense of love, forgiveness, and compassion.
Take a short rest laying on your back with the knees into the chest.
Do some abdominal strengtheners, such as leg lifts or bicycle.
Either come into the following: sphinx, prone half frog, and bow; or use: downward facing dog, king pigeon (and any variations you like), downward facing dog.
Take child's pose or a bowing position.
Triang Mukha Eka Pada Paschimottanasana with a twist and then forward bend; or Ardha Matsyendrasana with twist and then forward.
Supine with the knees to your chest. Spend a few minutes feeling the back melt into the earth and grow broad.
Savasana
Love Much,
Kris
http://www.totalhealthyoga.com/
http://www.totalhealthyogaclasses.blogspot.com/
Today is the first day of the rest of your life!
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