Reach new heights by doing what's right for your body
Many practitioners I meet tend to feel somewhat insecure or frustrated by their bodies. That they’re not as flexible or strong as they would like them to be. Or, that they are not well and as such feel trapped by their own limitations. But I cannot stress enough that this is just not so. It doesn’t need to be this way. Part of my teaching involves helping practitioners to understand the difference between mental and physical limitations, and to trust that with consistent practice they can achieve their goals. The sense of relief people tend to experience when I explain this is huge. I literally see people physically relax just via the knowledge and assurance they can work through any health concern and take their practice to new levels (so long as it’s done under supervision of a trained professional of course).
Whilst led classes are wonderful - (They really are. The energy in a led class is just beautiful) - they are a more ‘generic’ class if you will. Practitioners will receive the movement they desire, and any practice is FAR better than no practice. But for those trying to achieve a certain goal, whether that be to reduce chronic back pain, arthritis, sciatica.. such classes are not necessarily going to see that goal realised. Our bodies were not made equal. In some cases it can actually be counter productive. You see, if we are trying to lessen the effects of sciatic, for example, there are very specific asanas which need to be completed, and in a very specific order. There are also many asanas which could aggravate the sciatic without the practitioner realising. Whilst yoga has phenomenal benefits for the body, if not completed with conscious awareness and a true acceptance of our individual capabilities, the opposite of yoga is also true. Trying to force asanas will not lead to positive outcomes - I assure you. In saying that, I don’t recommend people suddenly stop attendance at led classes. Absolutely not. They truly are wonderful classes to be a part of. What I do recommend, however, is for those practitioners who have some health concerns or feel their practice has stagnated a little, to meet with a teacher one on one to have a very personalised sequence developed for them, one they can commit to for a period of time. Then, the practitioner will begin to see those desired changes and results.
If we truly take the time to listen to, respect and trust our bodies, we can achieve great things. Our only limitation is our mindset. If you’ve been following along with my blog posts you would already know I talk a lot about mindset. It is fundamental to achieving any dream/goal in life. For if we tell ourselves we cannot achieve - then guess what - you will make it so. On the contrary, if you are truly committed to reaching new heights and conquering any health issues, then this will be so.
We tend to be our own worst enemies at times. I know I’m my harshest critic. However, if we are patient with ourselves, which means granting ourselves time rather than wanting everything now, then I assure the benefits you seek in body, mind and spirit will come. You just need to want it enough.
If you have any health concerns or other limitations you would like specific advice about, please don’t hesitate to comment below or send me an email. I’m more than happy to chat with you.
Namaste xx