Hey everyone, welcome back! Today, let’s chat about something often overlooked in our busy lives, and even in our yoga practice: rest. We’re so focused on the asana, the poses, on pushing ourselves to reach new heights (or should I say, new bends!), that we sometimes forget that yoga is also about finding stillness.
Think of it like this: your practice is a beautiful, vibrant garden. The asanas are the flowers, full of color and life. But the rest, the Savasana at the end, is the rich, fertile soil that allows those flowers to truly thrive. Without it, the garden would just be a bunch of pretty blooms struggling to survive.
Rest in yoga isn’t just about lying down and doing nothing. It’s about consciously allowing your body and mind to integrate the practice, to absorb the benefits, and to truly unwind. It’s about shifting from a state of doing to a state of being.
Often, we rush through Savasana, eager to get on with our day. But what if we treated it with the same respect and intention as we treat our Sun Salutations? What if we allowed ourselves to fully surrender to the support of the earth, to feel the gentle rhythm of our breath, to simply be?
Here’s a little experiment you can try today: Instead of reaching for your phone the second you settle into Savasana, try placing a folded blanket under your knees. This gentle support can help release tension in your lower back, allowing you to sink deeper into relaxation. Close your eyes, and just focus on your breath for five minutes. Notice the rise and fall of your chest, the subtle shifts in your body.
Rest isn’t weakness; it’s a source of strength. It allows us to recharge, to rejuvenate, and to approach life with a renewed sense of clarity and calm. Let’s embrace the stillness, the quiet moments, and allow them to nourish us from the inside out. Remember, finding stillness is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself, and enjoy the ride. Namaste.