Thoughts on Yoga
Putting "Work" into Perspective
2007-09-09
As I sit writing this beside my open window, I feel a touch of chill in the air. The light is a bit more golden than it was just a week ago. All of a sudden, folks at the studio are starting to say the word "Fall."
"Labor Day" is aptly named as it means "Back to Work!" for most of us.
Even for those of us who work through the Summer, there is a quickening at this time of year. New ideas, goals and directions often emerge. If we have been fortunate enough let ourselves go and really enjoy Summer, then Fall can be a pleasant return to industriousness.
This time now is extremely precious because you have the leisure to consciously decide how you want your Fall to look.
We know that soon we will be inundated by demands for our time and energy. Personally I know how it feels to be overextended making a living, taking care of a home and meeting family responsibilities. Once in a while I have tried to make it all work out by sleeping less, eating whatever was easy, and skipping my yoga practice.
Once many years ago when I was in a period of overworking self-denial, I came across an affirmation that said "Treating Myself Like a Precious Object Makes Me Strong." I honestly didn't know what it meant. Was I supposed to be lazy and self-indulgent?
Over the years since, I have learned by bitter experience that I can't do everything that needs to be done if I don't treat myself well first. My personal list of non-negotiable self-care includes eating good food every day, sleeping 8 hours every night, doing yoga and meditation, relaxing with friends and loved ones, hiking in nature, and mental exercise in the form of puzzles and games. Giving these to myself regularly ensures that when I am working, I am highly effective.
Pausing at this brief moment between Summer and Fall you can reflect on all the possibilities for you in the coming season.
Include in your musings the possibility of "Treating yourself like a precious object"-- among other things, keeping your body well-nourished, rested, flexible and relaxed. Imagine how much more you will be able to enjoy your Fall when these few basic needs are met.
If you are concerned about the practical consequences of taking time for yourself, think how much harder it is to get anything done when you are lacking in energy due to inadequate sleep, food and exercise. The long-term consequences of not attending to your self-care can range from chronic illness to substance abuse to depression, all of which are major roadblocks to productivity.
From "Treating myself like a precious object" I've learned that the kinder I am to myself, the more I accomplish, the more prosperous I am, the more I enjoy what I have, and the more I enjoy just being alive.
What's on your non-negotiable self-care list? Here are some baselines to start you off:
Eat at least one leisurely meal per day you prepared for yourself (or lovingly prepared by someone in your household.) Eat only nutritious foods you truly enjoy at this meal.
Get out and walk in Nature at least a few minutes each day and an for an extended period once a week.
Sit quietly with yourself for a few minutes each morning and each evening. Take deep breaths, pray, meditate, or mindfully sip some tea.
Do yoga 1-2 times per week at least; every day if you can.
You finish the list...