July ‘19
There can be an unforeseen joy that can overcome us when we finally land on our mats. It can feel like the first chance we’ve had all day to exhale, to let all that we’ve been carrying go.
We are here. We made it.
In that initial, often missed moment when we land, there is a small gift waiting for us if we are willing to pay attention. It is welcomed relief.
Next time notice as you feel your shoulders drift lower the moment you walk into your studio. Maybe your neck and jaw soften as you step foot on your mat. Maybe you unconsciously smile as you slip your block under your seat before you take your first full, deep breath --- and sloooowly exhale out. Maybe you feel awash with a wave of sadness now that you are in a space where you feel safe enough to put the armor down and be you.
When we show up and land on our mats, much like in life, we teach ourselves to create space for ourselves. Consider how much space do you need in your life? Do you need a football field of space? Do you need 12 inches? What is enough for you?
There are no right answers, but it’s on this matted rectangle that we begin to learn how to create space for ourselves in life. For one single hour, that is our world. It’s our place to breathe, dance and play. It creates a literal boundary for our own selves. A contained environment that hardly anyone steps into. It is only meant for us.
Sit with that idea for a moment.
Your mat is there to meet you wherever you are. it is not defined by who we are or our duties. It’s just us. and there we can be Filled with elation or do the necessary healing required of our hearts.
And as we breathe and move, the noise of life quiets. It’s only then that we can begin to hear the soft whisper of our own voice. It’s only there on our mats where we slowly begin the practice of returning to the home within ourselves.
So look for her(him) next time.
