Embracing Change
There is an excitement in the air. With springtime comes a wondrous shift in nature as the flowers bloom in waves, and temperatures warm as we approach the summer solstice. There is a shift at the Yoga Center also — a shift into greater ease and flexibility as far as registering for classes, and a refresh in the look of the studio, too! If you are still online and have not yet seen the refresh, please join us in person soon.
As with any change, there are challenges. Change can be scary when we embark into the unknown. In those cases, I am grateful to have the teachings of yoga to fall back on. The Yamas and the Niyamas were written down 1500 to 2000 years ago and they are still relevant today. We can look to the Yama of Aparigraha and Niyama ofIishvara Pranidhana to support us in times of change.
Aparigraha refers to the ability to go with the flow. Literally translated as “non-grasping” it teaches us to recognize the impermanence of things in the physical world and it helps us to turn toward that which is lasting. It is the nature of objects to change over time,: things naturally shift over the seasons and the years and it is also exciting to welcome something new or different into our lives. Recognizing that no thing lasts forever, we move toward a more internal experience that does not change,: for instance, the love we have for our family and friends and the sense of community that we have built at the Yoga Center. When we stay connected to those feelings of connection, we can ride out even the highest waves of change.
Ishvara Pranidhana is the teaching of trust in the Universe, or your higher power, or whatever brings you the essence of spirit in your life. It literally translates as “taking shelter in that which is larger than our own selves.” Wikipedia says Ishvara can translate as the “ruler of choices, blessings, or boons.” Sometimes, when change occurs, it is difficult to see clearly, but if we can trust that the Universe has our backs, the blessing will appear.
The Yoga Center is such a special place where we all come to move our bodies and feel better. But yoga is more than a physical practice, it is a mental discipline too. And so turning toward yoga philosophy can support us in times of change, then we can embrace each day of our lives with wonder and joy.
I hope you will join us at YCC for a class, training, or workshop coming up, and stay tuned for more information about our new registration software. If you already have an account with us, you will only need to switch your password. Embrace the change, say "goodbye" to spring, and welcome summer with us at the Yoga Center of Columbia!
