Few years ago I was introduced to yoga by a friend. She had just completed her yoga teachers training and invited us, friends, for a trial class . I really enjoyed the session and decided to enroll myself at a class near my house. 

I was admitted to the beginners level. And the morning of the first day at class, I experienced the same feeling as a child on his first day at school. 

First few days, a set of asanas were introduced. Unless we could understand these asanas well and with practise perform them as explained, the next set was not taught. So the asana practise was kind of repetitive during the first few weeks. 

These initial days it was exciting and I was participating determinedly. But soon this feeling started fading. Same set was getting boring and I desperately wanted to learn the next one.

Then I noticed Arti, this girl from my batch. She always displayed a sweet smile. Her spirit was always high and she definitely had spring in her step. She religiously completed the everyday set with beaming zeal and discipline. Inspite of finding some steps difficult and sometimes tiring longer sessions, the tired body never reflected on her face. She still would display a warm smile after the class. 

This got me thinking one day. I was younger and fitter than her, yet I lacked energy compared to her. 

And thus I observed her for a while and realised an awesome formula that maintained her high spirit. 

She practised willingness. Willingness along with determination. 

I noticed, inspite of getting tired, she would push herself. She worked hard to focus. And she made sure to enjoy the not-so-pleasant feel too. She had that grit of just keeping doing! She had that willingness to work hard, come what may !

Such a big lesson !

So many times I had given up on tasks just because I was bored or tired or simply didn’t want to work hard. I had to face the fact …. I lacked that willingness to push myself. I lacked that attitude of not giving up at times. 

Arti taught me the real way to success through willingness. 

This new realisation filled me with excitement. And when I gave it a try , with baby steps , I discovered it was not hard. 

Firstest of my baby steps was at my yoga class. Would you like to test your grit and willingness too …….. try this

Exercise : Stand up straight . Raise your arms up horizontal in front of you with palms facing up. Now bend your knees and come into a semi-squatting position, as though you are sitting at the edge of a stool. Keep your torso straight or tilted slightly forward maintaining your comfort . Breathe normally and naturally. Hold this position. If this seems easy, get onto the balls of your feet lifting your heels. 

Now when your legs begin to tire, practice your willingness. Smile . Try enjoying being in this position. Bring your awareness to the energy flood in your body to help you. 

Breathe smile breathe smile breathe smile ….. slowly release.

Fun ?

Could you push yourself and hold for a few seconds more each time you tried this again?

It is hard work for sure.

Practising this willingness , my yoga practise improved. I became stronger and soon was promoted to the next level. 

I applied this attitude to other areas of my life too and met deadlines so well. Performance improved leading to happiness and more peace. 

I love telling myself ,” Yes Meenal you can do it. You are the best . I love you.”

Self love, acceptance, willingness and determination are all essential.

I am Grateful for every experience in my life.🙏 

(P.s. not a great pic up there 🙈…..)

(MY) BODY LANGUAGE

Mindfulness