It sits there in the corner – quiet and unassuming, but taking it out has become one of the treasured parts of my day. The soft, cushioning blue undergirds me, supports me as I sit peacefully. Breathing slows, I’m conscious for perhaps the first time that day of my heartbeat. My body becomes fluid, moving smoothly through poses that now feel effortless – breath matching the movement as I stretch, hold, hover.
When I first discovered yoga, I was looking for something to help me manage my emotions. The kids began to connect the mat and moves to this goal, and if I was particularly grumpy that day I would tellingly get asked ‘Have you done your yoga yet, Mummy?’
Now, it has become something far more broad – a place to reconnect with myself, to be mindful, peaceful, at home. I look forward to pulling out the mat, settling in, sinking down into the earth. It moves me – from tense to relaxed, from wound to loose. Ideas spring from hidden places as I allow my mind to switch off from crazy mode, creativity blossoms and my body thanks me for the daily investment. I suppose it has become my happy place.
This post is part of the #Write31Days challenge that I’m participating in along with a talented community of other writers. We free write for five minutes (or more) guided by a prompt. Today’s prompt is ‘move’.
For more information on 31 Days of Five Minute Free Writes, check out Christina Hubbard’s site!
6 comments
I haven’t tried yoga yet. I’ll have to try it.
It really is so great – I used to struggle with a lot of back pain but have absolutely none now 🙂
I’m interested in learning more about yoga. It has such a negative connotation here because it is so closely associated with Hinduism. I am sure there are ways to do it that doesn’t compromise my conscience or testimony as a Christian here in Nepal.
I grew up being told a lot of negative things towards yoga as well – from the spiritual side of it. But I have found that (the way this lady does it anyway: https://www.youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene) it is just great for mindfulness and being aware of your body, breathing and stretching. But yes, I totally know where you are coming from 🙂
It has been the same for me. Sanity. My son once brought me a picture he drew of Jesus while I was on my yoga mat. (knife in the heart, I tell you—right after I totally lost my marbles with the kids). If I don’t do it now, something’s off. It’s become a part of who I am. I often pray while making it up as I go. Your kidlets are wise. They know when Mommy’s happy.
Oh I never knew you did yoga too! That is so cool… I haven’t been brave enough to make it up myself yet as I’m afraid I will be tempted to power through the moves rather than slow my pace down… but one day…