Connecting Through Yoga

Connecting Through Yoga
We all long for connection… to others, to the world, and within ourselves.  Connecting through yoga gives us many opportunities to do this.
Though the teacher ‘sets the stage’, so to speak, by holding a safe space of acceptance and support, the yoga practitioner has an opportunity in class to engage in their connection process.  It has been shown that moving through class with others in a synchronized way increases a feeling of bonding and connection with others. This is no small thing in a society with growing isolation issues and being drawn into our electronic devices.
The yoga practitioner starts this process just by showing up to practice with a curious and exploring mind.  However, the next step is sometimes the most difficult… letting go and allowing rather than pushing to some prior expectation of success.  Being present and allowing the breath to move you through the practice is key.  When we explore and listen inwardly with non-grasping curiosity we can cultivate inner awareness and acceptance moving toward connection with Self.  From a moving practice we can then bring this inner awareness and connection into our meditation practice – on the mat and in daily life.
Gail Thompson, E-RYT500, is a Lead Trainer for SOYA Yoga Teacher Training in Creston, BC in the Kootenays. She is leading the SOYA Yoga 200 hour teacher training in Creston from Feb – May, 2020.