Why yoga? What is it about yoga practice that keeps you returning to it again and again? What is yoga’s promise? These are questions I was recently asked to reflect on as part of a group mentoring journey I’m on with the wonderful Chrissy Chung. Seemingly simple questions, yet ones that are interesting for students and teachers of yoga to contemplate.
My mentor asked me these questions to help me gain clarity not just around why I love yoga, but also why I teach yoga. Our why is an important piece in our yoga teaching because the reason why we practice is the foundation for what we hope to pass on to others. What lights us up is the spark that can be passed on, the ancient wisdom of yoga transmitted through us in a way that is uniquely ours.
There are many reasons I could list about why I love yoga and stay committed to my practice. It supports me in keeping my body healthy. It helps me find more stillness in my often busy mind. It teaches me to let go of my ego and realise that we are part of something greater. Very simply put, it just feels good!
But what is the connecting thread that weaves its way through all those reasons?
Above all else, yoga promises a deep source of nourishment and remembrance. Every time I practice, I am reminded of all that is already contained within me, that there’s a whole universe in there that I can self-resource from, an eternal spring of sweetness. No matter what the circumstances are, I can do my practice and feel connected to myself and to life again. This is at the root of why I practice.
The beautiful thing is, everything that is contained within me is also contained within you. And the nourishment from that inner universe (or should I say inner garden?) is something I hope everyone who steps onto the mat can get a taste of. The realisation that you are already whole, you are enough, you are home. This is at the root of why I teach yoga.
@innergardenyoga
