Just be you–how many times have I heard that advice? Feels like it’s a common theme of the last few years of my life, and never more reinforced than this afternoon. Plenty of books have told me how I’m entirely worthy exactly as I am, and I know I’m a unique snowflake, and I’ve heard on NPR that we’re all drops of water in one perfect ocean. One happiness blog I read even has “just be you” as a fundamental tenet of life satisfaction. So it wasn’t news when I got the same message today.
The message is that I got it. Today’s in-person communication conveyed information and cultivated understanding in a way I believe is unique to the flow of spiritual energy. I have no idea what anyone else in my class learned or experienced, though I can make some guesses based on questions asked and information shared. But as far as I’m concerned our teacher was the best of professors in that he was entirely open to inquiry and he was fully himself. He made no apologies for going on tangents or letting the subject drift. His mind works this way, as many minds work. It is okay.
And in addition to a great many insights he freely offered, he also helpfully clarified my objective/mission/aspirations as a yoga teacher: Promote the light within people.
Namaste, basically. I honor the light within me as I honor the light within you. I want you to feel nourished and comfortable and safe, to have the energy to grow. And yes, I mean YOU–I am starting to feel this way about pretty much everyone I meet, particularly people people willing to read my blog or who will be my students.
And you and I both are doing just fine, just by being us. I find that really exciting! We don’t have to do anything different and we are already okay–but if we want to change, we have the ability. The energetically unlimited potential to occupy new spaces.
It feels so good not to try so hard, not to worry so much. I was probably especially receptive to this message today because before lunch we had a very intense vinyasa practice. It was very emotional for me; the instructor seemed to know I’ve been feeling insecure and inadequate, because she encouraged us to close our eyes and let go of expectation or approval.
If your eyes are closed, you can’t see how low your arms are sagging in warrior two, nor can you critique the angle of your hips in downward dog. Nor can you see anyone around you who is doing better or worse. You simply feel what your body is, where it is, and do your best.
Be who I am and do my best. And breathe. That’s my yoga.
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