Yoga is commonly perceived as a peaceful retreat, offering a chance to relax and stretch into a state of blissful calmness. While this is true, yoga has evolved into something deeper and more meaningful for me.
The more I explore my practice, the more I understand that it's not solely about perfecting poses. It involves facing the innermost parts of myself. While some days yoga fills me with energy, making me feel light and carefree, on other days, it serves as an emotional release. Tears may surface not due to the physical challenge of a pose, but because it brings forth suppressed emotions.
Yoga, it seems, has it's way for unearthing what we try to bury.
Some yoga poses can evoke deep emotions. For instance, a hip-opening pose may bring up past pain, while holding warrior pose for a long time may reveal hidden fears. It is often during Savasana, the final relaxation pose, that emotions come to the surface. Tears may be shed, releasing the tension that was being held inside.
However, this breakdown is not a display of weakness; rather, it signifies the beginning of peace. The feeling of release is overwhelming, like a purifying wave that washes away the hidden burdens I wasn't even aware of.
Yoga isn't just about stretching our bodies, it's about stretching our hearts and minds. It's a guided exploration into the shadows we tend to avoid. We all have those deep, dark corners – the ones whispering "confront me, accept me." But out in the world, facing them feels daunting. The yoga mat, however, becomes a safe haven, a space to confront these truths in a gentle, supported way.
If you ever start to cry during Savasana or experience intense emotions like fear, anxiety, despair, helplessness, frustration, or grief in certain yoga poses, don't be alarmed. Instead of ignoring or avoiding these feelings, embrace them without judgment or criticism. Recognize that it's your body, mind, and soul communicating, saying, "Thank you for finally listening."
Can you relate or have you had experience similar? I'd love to hear about your experience the next time we meet.
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