5 tips to refresh your commitment to yoga

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By: Wendy Jacob
Based in the UK, I have had many wonderful teachers in different styles of yoga -including Ashtanga, Iyengar and Hatha traditions. This has encouraged me to develop my own teaching which is ...

time to move on – not away from yoga

You have trained long and hard, practiced diligently, and now you have doubts – about yourself, your teaching and commitment. What is happening?

The answer is: you are practicing yoga. Self-inquiry, reflection and doubting your intentions are the manifestation of a deeper relationship, that can withstand and flourish through inquiry and emotional turmoil.

Compare your relationship with yoga with other meaningful relationships that endure through change and even conflict. If they are strong, they will develop and strengthen. Yes, flaws may be revealed and that relationship may change, but the underlying love will endure and prove richer in the long-term.

Where, when and how you discover yoga will determine the start of your journey. This may be a route that takes us into a practice, or even teacher training that requires commitment to a certain style that, later in life, may not nourish and support your growth.

An acceptance and even ultimately a rejection of a particular school of yoga is neither a reflection on the practice, but merely an acknowledgement that it is time to move on. The body and mind evolves during our journey through life.

Yoga may keep us flexible, strong and active in the physical body, but our aims may change, as we recognize and nurture other areas of our practice.

Physical injury, health concerns and natural aging also determine the suitability of any practice and may mean changing or adapting your practice. One of the many comforts in yoga is that there is always something that you can do – either softening your practice until recovery allows you to return to your previous choice, or moving into different areas such as pranayama or meditation.

How do you move forward when you feel stuck? 

It’s important to accept and be open to change

Drawing back and observing your intentions may at first contribute to feelings of loss and even anger. To “let go” of a rigid practice can also cause feelings of guilt as you release yourself of the commitment and possibly regular practice that has become part of the pattern of your daily life.

Remember, you are only recognizing changes in yourself.

Recall how well the practice suited you in the past – what you have learned and how it has supported you. Let go of guilt and be thankful for the experience.

Have a break and encourage the body and mind to rest.

Find the space for observation, inquiry and introduction to other aspects or styles of yoga. This may even result in a refreshed interest and commitment in your previous practice.

Talk to your teacher and other students.

You will discover that these doubts and feelings are not unusual. Your teacher may suggest other classes or training that will support your growth. If this is ”˜ farewell’, a respectful parting will prevent any bad feelings.

Observe other areas of your life

See what else in your life may be contributing to your confusion.  It can be tempting to use yoga as a crutch to support other areas of life that are out of control, or even to be disappointed as yoga no longer gives you the feelings of strength, stability and calm that it provided when you first started.

Do not rush! 

Any decision should be taken slowly and calmly. Remember how long it took to develop your practice and how it has helped you develop.

It may be time to move on, but that does not mean moving out! And if you decide to take a break – yoga will be there waiting patiently to welcome you back – no questions asked.

Conclusion

In wrapping up, it’s essential to recognize that your journey with yoga—much like any profound relationship in your life—is uniquely yours, filled with personal discoveries, challenges, and growth. As you navigate through various phases of your practice, remember that change is inevitable and a sign of deepening engagement with yourself and your path in yoga.

Your dedication to teaching and yoga mirrors your commitment to yourself and your well-being. It’s a practice that consistently invites you to question, reflect, and adapt, ensuring that your relationship with it remains alive, dynamic, and aligned with your evolving needs and insights.

As you move forward, whether in periods of doubt or clarity, embrace the journey with openness and curiosity. Let your practice be a space for exploring not just the physical postures, but also the inner landscapes of your being. This journey is about more than just flexibility or strength; it’s about discovering resilience, peace, and a deeper connection to the essence of who you are.

Remember, yoga is more than a practice—it’s a lifelong companion that supports you through every season of life. Whether you find yourself returning to the mat after a break, exploring new styles, or deepening your existing practice, yoga offers a sanctuary for growth, healing, and renewal.

In every breath and movement, you’re invited to a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. So, as you continue on this path, cherish the journey, honor your progress, and remain open to the endless possibilities that yoga brings into your life. After all, the true essence of yoga lies not in achieving the perfect pose but in embracing each moment with presence, compassion, and an open heart.

Also read >> coming back to yoga after illness