Day 11 of my daily reflection practice inspired by Meditations from the Mat by Rolf Gates and Katrina Kenison.
What struck me?
“The master sticks to her tools.” - Lao-Tzu
What does this mean in my life and practice?
How many times have I been here before? And how many times have I found what helps me through? So why, when I find myself here again, don’t I reach for those tools? This is a question I have not quite answered yet.
Today that is my yoga practice. I have been practicing for 20 years and know what those tools are that work for me. I have finally decided to commit to the practice, and practice daily, to embrace the one tool that, for me, solves all; mentally, physically, and spiritually.
“Abhyasa, or practice, is really about making something a priority. As we enact that priority, an energy builds in our life to support it.”
My priorities had shifted so far out of alignment that I did not know or appreciate who I had become for myself and others. I was not “practicing” moderation, restraint, self-care, or anything really. I was simply “powering through” which is not “practice” and not healthy.
Last week, I received an email during the day that bothered me. I could feel my heart starting to pound. I was having a physical reaction to the stress. I stopped, received the message, and then carried on. If I had been deeper into using my resources, I might have gotten up and taken a walk outside to clear my head, breathe, and give myself the break I needed in that moment. Instead, I “powered on.”
I always had the tools to reach for. Why is it that in our weakest moments, we don’t?
“The winds of life constantly wear away at this shelter, but if we stick to our tools, the shelter will hold.”
Today my practice is my priority. I wake to it, return to its tools throughout the day, and lay my head down at night more peacefully because of it.
Life as I live it - Lori