Finding Balance in the Opposites

Thursday I fly back to New Orleans. Vicki will be leading the Gentle and Restorative class this week and throughout August (Thank you, Vicki!). Leaving CA is bittersweet. I love it out here: spending time with and helping my parents, seeing old friends, and, of course, enjoying their pool but I am also ready for my own space and returning to my routine.

As I prepare to head to the Big Easy, I must admit going back brings mixed emotions—gratitude and reluctance, joy and uncertainty, excitement and sadness. This is part of being human. This came up a few weeks ago but I felt the need to touch on it again.

The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is credited with saying, “the only constant is change.” While change can be exciting, it can also bring up conflicting emotions—and that's okay.

Yoga reminds us that we don't have to choose one feeling over another. On the mat, we practice holding opposites every day: it’s the yin and yang of it all, the effort and ease, strength and softness, grounding and surrender. Our practice teaches us that we can make space for it all.

This week, can you notice what you're carrying? When you notice it, instead of trying to change it, see if you can simply breathe with it, accept it. Definitely easier said than done, but every inhale creates space. Every exhale invites acceptance.

Come to your practice exactly as you are. Whatever you're feeling is welcome here. You are welcome here.

This Week's Intention: "I create space for every part of my experience."

I’ll see you on the mat!