Truth and Beauty and Yoga

I’m a writer. My own personal process requires stillness in my environment and a certain stillness of mind. I’ve never been able to create well in the middle of a storm of activity. Achieving stillness in my environment is easier than it used to be. If all else fails, I can always get up before the hubbub begins.

Stillness of mind is harder to achieve. I’ve used many methods. “Porch-time” is one. I just sit (on my porch, weather-permitting) and reflect. It’s a type of meditation without a mantra. I started this one when my children were little. Then, it was to gain just one moment for myself. It was simply a way to get a breather. As in: “deep breath- I’m still a human being.” It was good for problem-solving, too.

I’ve also tried traditional meditation using a mantra or music (if one can ever say meditation is traditional). This is wonderful, too, but for me it is more a spiritual and mystical experience than a means to an end.

The practice that inspires me is yoga. My practice has waxed and waned for many years… but when I commit to it, it is transformative. Yoga is an ancient Sanskrit word that means to yoke or bind and that is what it does. It literally joins body and mind. The transformation comes because it guides you gently, using breathing and specific postures, into the present moment. Since we all are earth-bound at present, this seems a good idea.

I know this sounds a little esoteric but I’m convinced that if it was called Strength and Stretch instead of yoga… everyone would be on board. The benefits extend far beyond what I have mentioned here. All I can say is find a good teacher. This would be someone who doesn’t try to make you do ridiculous, painful poses. Whatever your endeavor, try it. Try it. Try it.