Almost a year ago one of our editors at Yogi Times haI knew when we decided to dedicate this month’s magazine to men’s topics that it would be a journey into some new waters for us. I have looked forward to the opportunity to introduce a stronger male perspective into the magazine as well as to address some previously unexplored topics. Creating this issue gave me the opportunity to give some serious thought to what men are all about. As a woman, I have always viewed men in relation to how they differ from women. I have defined my sense of femininity based on the parts of my identity that are not masculine. But what I realized as I read the articles that were submitted for this issue is how confining the idea of defining people in terms of masculine and feminine qualities is. Masculine and feminine are merely categories we have created to enhance our sense of identity. But all of our qualities, whether classified as masculine or feminine, are human qualities that we all possess to some degree. By changing my perspective and seeing men in terms of how they are similar rather than different from me, I feel as though I have improved my ability to relate to them and their needs.
During my years as a yoga teacher I have experienced first hand the effect that yoga and developing a spiritual practice can have on men. It offers them an opportunity to uncover their true nature. They become free to connect to their inherent sensitivity, compassion, strength and authenticity without compromising their inherent “maleness.” I want this issue to inspire men to seek out and be who they truly are. I also want it to inspire women to see beyond the cultural constraints to which men have been bound in order to give them a space to thrive, explore and grow.
Namaste,
Sophie Parienti
