A Simpler Way
Yoga- The neutralization of ego-directed feelings. Because once these feelings become stilled, the yogi realizes that they are, and that they have always been, one with the Infinite- that their awareness of this reality was limited only by their infatuation with limitation. Yoga is limitless. -(Ancient Sage Patanjali)
Meditation- The practice of turning your attention to a single point of reference. It can involve focusing on the breath, of bodily sensations, or on a word or phrase known as a mantra. In other words, meditation means turning your attention away from distracting thoughts and focusing on the present moment. -(Psychology Today)
There are always more than one way of doing things. To think that there is only one way is an unhealthy limiting belief. A concept that we all struggle with, whether we are aware of it or not. Thankfully, once we come to understand that a limiting belief is holding us back, we then have the opportunity to discover and learn about new ways- thinking outside the box. This can be so much simpler than we could have ever imagined.
I was actually stuck in the middle of a limiting belief for years. I had myself convinced that in order to practice "yoga" I had to start out with 10 Sun Salutations each time, and follow very specific plans and postures. I also believed that meditating only consisted of sitting still and breathing for "x" amount of time. I couldn't have been more wrong to think that those were the only ways. Because of these thoughts, I actually stopped practicing both of these altogether. It became an annoying burden- feeling guilt from not treating my mind and body right, and being hard on myself because I couldn't follow through with the discipline. Oh how I wish I'd listened to the cries of my Spirit sooner!
I've since learned that a daily "yoga" practice can consist of slow and gentle stretches- not in any particular order, or posture, or any amount of time (it could take 5 minutes! Be careful not to undervalue how beneficial even a mere 5 minutes of practice can be for your health). Just listen to your body and where it needs to be stretched out! Other days it could consist of 1-2 hours of practicing along to an intense routine/video/class... It's all beneficial to the mind, spirit and body just the same!
I've learned that meditation has no time limit or expectations either! Meditation can consist of a breathing exercise that you find on Youtube- showing you when to breathe in and out, and when to hold it, helping you to practice mindfulness and stilling the mind. You can do this for 1 minute some days, and 45 minutes other days! It doesn't mater how long you do it for, just as long as you're not being hard on yourself. Show up for yourself, and listen to your body. Let it move you, trust that it will show you the way. And it will guide you- every single time.
x -Paige