Today I heard something during posture clinics that caught my attention. The question was, "What is yoga?" Yoga means different things to different people. For some, it is a healing practice, while for others it is a chance to escape the real world for an hour and a half and let go of any stress. However, the reply brought up in class today hit the nail on the head for me - that is, yoga is a conscious form of exercise.
I've mentioned before that I enjoy running and have ran now for nearly 10 years (since freshman year in high school). Yet not until I began practicing the Dayton method of yoga did I learn to engage my mind in exercise. Granted, there are runners that do this when practicing and competing, and perhaps I just never thought to think during my races. I am by no means discrediting runners or the ability to perform in a race. I think for some reason I just never made the connection to engage mentally in a physical practice.
During the 28 postures and 2 breathing exercises, I am consistently using my mind to push my body further. It's almost an annoying yet persistent conversation with myself. "Yes, you can do this, just hold the pose for 5 for more seconds, don't let go, keep going." Applying this mentality to other areas of my life is a struggle yet it's important that I do so. Without taking what I learn in yoga and using it in my daily interactions with others, I'm essentially limiting my practice and my ability to grow as an individual.
And for those wondering if I still continue to run, the answer is yes! I thoroughly enjoy running and most recently did a beautiful and hilly 6 mile run through San Francisco. Whatever your form of exercise is, I suggest engaging the mind and notice if there's any difference in your physical performance.
_Peace and Love
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