Back to Basics

Often in yoga classes there is a shift of energy when the instructor mentions that the dreaded "balance pose" is up next. Occasionally you might even hear a low grumble.

The nerves, the fear of falling, suddenly kick in.

Finally we come out of the balance pose, noticing everything that connects to the earth, feeling safe again. Sighing, relaxing. We are grounded.

Off the mat, rarely do we receive such a heads up of what "pose" is next. No, life has a way of just bringing along the challenges that demand balance, usually surprising us while we are busy managing the day to day.

The universe is currently demanding that we practice balance. It is challenging us with death, loss of employment, COVID-19, racial injustice, separation from loved ones and friends, the list goes on...

Looking at Maslow's hierarchy of needs, its evident some of our most basic needs are currently being threatened. The nerves, the fear of falling, have kicked in.

So how do we get grounded off the mat?

Get back to basics.

Spend time outdoors, take 1 minute to focus on evening out the length of your inhales and exhales, eat fresh fruits and vegetables, take an extra long shower, do a random act of kindness, repeat a mantra of safety to yourself, listen wholeheartedly to someone else, donate a few items you no longer use, take a nap, be physically active, have a good laugh.

Take the pressure off, be kind to yourself, and get grounded.