Constant Motion

When I was a young kid, I had a LOT of energy. I was in perpetual motion...cartwheeling my way through life, leaping at any seemingly opportune time (like the supermarket aisle), and fidgeting. I always seemed to be fidgeting and as a result was told to "stop moving and sit still".

These were prophetic words seeing that as an adult, I have made it my personal mission to find my own inner stillness as well as teach it to others. It obviously didn't come as my default setting and has been something that I've had to practice over a long period of time.

Have you ever paid attention to how much time you spend fidgeting? Do you frequently pick at your fingernails, tap your toes, run your fingers through your hair or tug at your ear lobes? How difficult would it be for you to sit completely still as you are in a conversation with somebody else?
Our culture rewards us for constantly moving, doing and striving. If we sit still we may be labeled lazy as opposed to those who are seen as being busy and engaged. If we're moving and busy, then we must be doing something worthwhile and important.

As in anything, a continuum exists between doing nothing at all and being overly committed to activity. My thought for the week is can you do both (not at the same time)? Can you be productive as well as experience complete stillness and inner quiet? Ahhhh....now that's where our yoga practice comes into its full glory.

To paraphrase my teacher, Judith Hanson Lasater, "an advanced practitioner of yoga is someone who can be at ease and in stillness no matter which posture they're doing". We often think of advanced yogis as those who can do a full lotus during an inversion, a full wheel or who seem to be able to fully express any pose thrown their way. But the underlying question is can they do it and be fully at ease with breath and thought? It truly takes it to the next level of being in our yoga when we reflect the ancient teachings of asana (posture) as being in a comfortable seat.

The next time you step onto your mat, try finding the still point within each posture. The point at which everything feels within balance is the moment we can easily be with our breath and no struggle exists. It can really alter your experience.

Fidget first, find the pose then open to stillness. It'll take your practice to another level. Enjoy the journey!