Returning to the True Self
As I make my return to the studio from maternity leave I am realizing how important it is to maintain parts of my pre-mom self and integrate that into my new self.
Transitions in any phase of life can leave us feeling lost, unstable and insecure as we try to carry our past into the present. Sometimes we feel pressure to leave our past selves in the dust and completely become who we think we have to be now.
When we separate our past and present selves, or when we separate the parts of us that have been hurt from the parts that feel joy, we are not whole. We need to practice authentic self love and acceptance in order to bring the totality of who we are into the present. All experiences, even the hard ones, have made us who we are and shouldn't be dismissed.
In Yoga practice we have the Yamas and Niyamas to guide us to treat ourselves without harm, be honest about who we are, care for mind, body and spirit with love. They guide us to be content with who are in the moment while also putting in effort towards self growth.
When accept ourselves with love, no matter what stage of life we are in, our True Self feels more confident, more honest and more authentic in each interaction and decision we make. No effort towards Self acceptance is ever wasted.
Try these practices this month to connect with your true self.
3 Daily Practices to Live Your Truth Each Day:
1) Affirmations - Write a statement of affirmation in present tense and repeat it at least 3 times in a row, or until you feel it resonate in your being without resistance. This should be a positive statement about who you are, who you are becoming or something you are proud of yourself for. Something like "I am worthy of love" or "I can make it through this" or "I am a radiant and powerful being". Say it, feel it, believe it.
2) Self Care - In Ayurveda, the self-care practices that go alongside yoga practice, we are encouraged to eat well, sleep well, and make time to exercise our bodies, mind and spirit each day. Take care of your wellbeing with doctor appointments, exercise, hydration, nourishing food, quality sleep, sunshine and fresh air. You could walk to the doctor, in the sunshine and fresh air, while drinking a smoothie and then take a solid nap. DONE! Ayurveda also reminds us that each season of the year and each season of life will need a different balance of self care, so meet yourself with what you need today, and allow that to shift as needed to stay balanced.
3) Embodiment - As we practice integrating our mind, body and spirit into our True Selves I find it helpful to bring in a little whimsy and light heartedness. Change and self study are intense, so give yourself grace and a dance break. Dance to your favorite song once a day! In the car, in your office, in your bathroom, put on that song that makes you wiggle and shake it out. Let it move through you in whatever way you want, as long as it is authentic movement and is FUN! This practice will lift your spirits, get your blood flowing and hopefully bring back some lightheartedness.
I want you to know you are seen, you are loved and you are enough just as you are. And if you want to have a quick dance party after class, just say the word ;)
I am excited to return to teaching in May as teaching is something that makes me feel like my true authentic self. It brings me so much joy to share yoga with you and I look forward to every moment.
Hugs,
Ren