1 – Be Kind. In the yogic tradition, being kind (a.k.a. ahimsa) is the first of the cardinal virtues. Being kind is something that we often think we understand, but it can be easily missed in practice. For instance, being kind isn’t just about being nice to other people. It’s about being nice to ourselves. How often do we give ourselves a much harder time than we’d give others? This year, make a point to be loving and understanding in your thoughts to yourself, and to be compassionate with those around you. A kind and compassionate environment is the best place for us all to learn and grow.
2 – Be Aware. Allow yourself space to be aware. Notice those times when you want to go straight to your cell phone or your laptop, and opt instead to listen to the sounds around you, or to just look around your space–wherever you may be. I actually had this experience the other day. I was at a cafe waiting for a friend and it was quite busy. Because of the busy-ness, I went straight for my phone because some part of me urgently needed to view the newsfeed on Instagram. I stopped myself just as I turned on the phone, and wondered What On Earth Was I Doing? Instead, I opted for peace. I put the phone down, and tuned into my environment. I heard the sound of the coffee machine, the laughter of people on the street, the low rumble of conversation. Because I let myself be aware of my environment, I felt way more relaxed and grounded by the time my friend arrived. Taking time to be aware is a great gift to give yourself and others.
3 – Balance Your Yes And No. There are some of us who say Yes to everything, and some of us who say No to everything. Those who say Yes all the time often find themselves burnt out, while those who say No all the time can miss out on life’s amazing surprises. Wherever you lean, try balancing them out. Try saying No to something when deep down you really just need to take some time out for yourself, and then try saying Yes to something new and exciting that you would have otherwise brushed off.
4 – Have Fun. Above all, enjoy yourself. Take the time to create structure and boundaries and learn important things, but in all things, don’t take it too seriously. Let yourself be silly, and dance, and laugh. It’s actually one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. When you laugh (even if it’s on your own!) your brain creates chemicals which boost your immune system and help make you stronger! It’s really amazing. So, enjoy yourself in all that you do.
From all of us at YogaHub, we wish you a very Happy, Loving, Exciting, and Joyous New Year
