As life turns and the world is still full of all kinds of chaos, it feels like there’s some magic in the air too! Each day is becoming a little lighter and milder; there are a few blackbirds tentatively singing and spring flowers slowly appearing in our gardens. As the Equinox approaches, this season marks New Year festivities in many Buddhist and Hindu communities, and it’s often the time yogis start to set goals or intentions for the year to come as they feel more accessible than in the depths of winter.
What might a yogic goal look like? And isn’t the idea of a yoga goal almost counter-productive? After all, who wants to add even more to the to-do list?!
Last month, I quoted from the yoga sutras. Another pearl of wisdom from that text says that yoga practice is established when cultivated over a long period of time. This suggests that there is no real goal or end point; no degree or certificate to say we’ve ‘done’ yoga. We simply keep on keeping on – even when we feel tired, inflexible and busy – we do what is within our capacity to do.
We may not see or feel changes right away, but gradually over time we notice we can move a bit deeper into postures, breathe a fuller breath or sit longer in meditation. Buddha said that ‘drop by drop, the pot is filled – again showing us that it’s quiet consistency and showing up for ourselves with dedication and kindness that will bring results over grand goals. So, as you move into spring, make space for yourself, for your morning coffee, journaling, spring walks, and practice in a way that helps you create refuge, meaning and self-development. When you reflect on it as summer lands, you’ll start to see those small green shoots of progress and purpose.
If you’d like to merge practice with supporting a wonderful cause, join us on 14 March (either in person or via zoom), for a donation-based class in support of Yoga Stops Traffick. Come and enjoy connected community, and give what you can to help expand this invaluable work supporting women and children who have been victims of human trafficking, rebuild their lives.
