To ground or to energize?
With the change of seasons going from hot to cold and light to dark, it signals holiday season in many cultures. That may mean traveling, more events, seeing friends and families and over all more things on the ‘to do’ list. This is an important time to use our inner awareness and discernment for self care so that we can show up in all of these upcoming interactions without burning out. An important question to ask is “Where are my body and mind at?”
In the Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 6.16-17, Krishna specifically addresses lifestyle habits that are important for a peaceful mind:
“But, O Arjuna, (the practice of) Yoga is not for those who eat too much or who do not eat at all, nor for those who sleep too much or keep awake (in excess). Those who are moderate in eating and recreation, moderate in their efforts in work, moderate in sleep and wakefulness, (their practice of) Yoga becomes the destroyer of all misery.”
During the holidays it can be so easy to indulge, sending the body and mind on an up and down rollercoaster that then has to be recovered from. By indulge, I mean doing something in excess. All good if you are fine with this cycle. But, if you are wanting to do it differently and find the courage and discipline to jump off that rollercoaster, let’s see how Yoga might support us on that journey.
KEEP UP YOUR PRACTICE
- Commit To Your Practice
Whatever your practices are, both stand alone practices and practices you do throughout your day, keep doing them. This is actually why having both is helpful.
With a stand alone practice, it’s important to have a minimum practice, especially during busy times. You may have a pranayama or meditation practice that you do for, let’s say, 20 minutes. That’s your typical stand alone practice time. But if you are traveling, out of routine, what is the amount of time you will do this practice no matter what? Five minutes? This means you won’t go to bed unless you’ve spent 5 minutes in your practice.
On the other hand, holidays tend to be ripe with experiences that trigger reactions to do your ‘throughout the day’ practices. What do you need to do to remember to do them?
With practice, little bits each day add up over time. Versus, doing a practice every once in a while when you ‘have the time.’ A well-worn path happens only with repeatedly walking on it over and over. That’s what consistent practice does, creates a well-worn path that you can take, eventually, without much thought.
SLOW DOWN
- Indulge In Slowing Down Actions
Since there are so many traditional foods and activities that happen this time of year, please, enjoy it! Not indulging in excess doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself. Try bringing in the practice of present mindfulness by slowing down and really enjoy that holiday treat. Take a bite and make it last as you explore all the flavors and what you enjoy about it. When we slow things down, it’s easier for the conscious mind to kick in and help with moderation.
Instead of rushing from one thing to the next, enjoy where you are at. Be fully present with whomever you are speaking to. Breathe. Slow down your answers to questions.
Indulge in the choice to slow down.
YOUR ENERGY LEVEL
- Focus awareness on your energy levels
Instead of just putting everything and everyone first, check-in with your energy level before saying ‘yes’ to things. You might even make a commitment to yourself that if your energy level is below a certain number (either a 1-10 scale or a 1-100 scale), it’s no to others and yes to time for yourself, which might include rest.
When your energy level is low, it makes sense to say ‘no’ and prioritize self-care.
Photo for Pexels
What about if it’s too high? If you find yourself over energized, this also might be a time to pause and take time for yourself to ground. It’s not to say we can’t have fun, but get curious about times of stimulation that can also lead to burnout.
Being aware of both ends of the energy spectrum helps with being present and being able to enjoy yourself when you do consciously decide to participate or help out. It may also help keep your body healthy too.
CONNECT WITH SANGHA
- Stay In touch with Sangha
Reach out and participate in whatever sangha’s you are a part of. Spiritual community is so important in reminding, motivating, and accountability.
12-step programs have always impressed me by the fact that you can go almost anywhere and find a meeting. I have heard from participants over the years how helpful this is center and ground themselves to their behavioral commitment.
The Yoga For The Mind Circle may not be available in person, but the Community Chat is always there to share, ask questions, and check-in. It’s up to each person to log on and post.
REPETITION TO FOCUS
- Choose a verse, your sankalpa or a quote that reflects what you want to cultivate this holiday season and end of the year.
How would you like to use the next 2 months to do it a little differently than past years? What can be your mantra to repeat each day to keep that at the forefront of the mind?
My suggestion is to choose one theme, topic or word to capture the essence of what you want to do differently. Not 2, 4, or 10. Just one. Let it be your guide and see what happens and where you land with it on December 31st.
Out of these 5 points, which one resonates most with you to help you be aware of where your body and mind are at?
Shanti.
