Hey everyone, welcome back to the mat! Today, I want to chat about something incredibly important, but often overlooked in our yoga practice (and our lives in general): rest.
We often think of yoga as pushing ourselves – getting deeper into poses, holding them longer, sweating it out. But true yoga is about balance, and that includes finding moments of complete stillness and restoration. Think of it like baking a delicious cake. You can have all the right ingredients and follow the recipe perfectly, but if you don’t let the batter rest, it won’t rise properly. Our bodies and minds are the same!
Rest isn’t just about lying down; it’s about actively choosing to disengage, to let go of tension, and to simply be. This could look like Savasana (corpse pose) at the end of your practice, but it could also be Child’s Pose during a challenging sequence, or even just a few deep breaths between postures.
So, what’s the secret? It’s simple: listen to your body. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or strained, don’t be afraid to modify the pose or take a break. There’s no shame in resting!
Here’s a simple thing you can try today: Before you even start your yoga practice (or any activity for that matter), take five minutes to lie down comfortably. Close your eyes, and simply focus on your breath. Notice the rise and fall of your chest. Let your thoughts come and go without judgment. Just be present. This small act of rest can set the tone for a more mindful and restorative practice, and a calmer day overall.
Remember, yoga is a journey, not a destination. Be kind to yourself, embrace the power of rest, and allow your body and mind to flourish. What’s the rush? Let’s find peace together.