Changing and Challenging Times

Some days it feels like everything is changing at the speed of light.  It is hard to get grounded, to feel like you have any control over what is happening.  It is days like this that it is more important than ever to get to your mat, roll it out and practice.  Notice the pace of your breath, let it slow down.  Notice if your tongue is stuck to the roof of your mouth or jaw is clenched, consciously release it.  Move your body, do some sun salutations and standing poses, focus on your feet being connected to your mat.  As you begin to flow and move with your breath you might notice the tension or sense of urgency that was with you is starting to clear.  Just stay with your breathing and continue your practice.  Take a few extra minutes in meditation or in Savanasa so your nervous system gets a chance to relax.


Change happens, it isn't necessarily good or bad, it just is.  It is how you respond to it that makes it seem good or bad, not the change itself.  Change can be on opportunity to learn something new about yourself, the people around you and how you respond to the world.  Take a moment to soften, soften your gaze, your attention, the muscles in your body.  When you soften it is easier to see the big picture, to know where to go next.

If you do not have a regular meditation practice start one now.  Start small, 1 minute, then build up to 5, then build from there.  Try it every day for a week, your life probably won't change dramatically right away but you may start notice small shifts in how you respond to stress or challenges, how your approach your day.  Most of all, when changes occur you will be more able to move with them, rather than against them.