Dear yogi friend, When I was a child I looked to my parents for permission to do something. As an adult; partners, friends ... I always needed to be told, "It's okay, you're allowed to [do the thing / take the time / study the course]." This permission is what enabled me to finally exhale and do.the.thing. In recent years however, I've recognised that I don't need permission from someone else. Instead, I can give myself permission. Without guilt. Without justification. Because inherently; I KNOW what I need to do to take care of myself: physically, emotionally, spiritually.
Working in a care environment these past 18 months I have found this to be so important because when I fill my cup first, I know I can then hold positive space for those who need it most. In yoga philosophy Svฤdhyฤya is a Sanskrit term that translates to "self-study" or "self-reflection". It is the fourth of the Niyamas (personal observances that aim to cultivate happiness and contentment) in Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. It can be seen as studying the sacred texts, but also as taking time to reflect on ourselves and our behaviours so that we can live more consciously. I'm still on the journey. Often I fall. But when I notice myself seeking permission to do something I know I need, I close my eyes and reach deep into my truest self, remembering that it's.okay.to.do.the.thing.I.know.I.need.
I hope you will do the same when I restart my online (Zoom) 40 min restorative yoga class, WEDNESDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER @7pm (UK). More information to follow, but do mark your diary to join me for these live offerings! If you would like to first get a taste of restorative yoga then I invite you to take a ten minute break and try this video. With love, Alice
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