Humility on the Mat

Photo via Pinterest.

So often lately I walk into the studio and the first thing I find myself doing is comparing myself to other yogis in the room.

How long has she been practicing?

He's got tattoos and strong-looking arms; he must be a badass advanced yogi. He can probably do a handstand. How long will it be before I can do a handstand?

Those girls chatting on their mats before class are laughing too loud. They sound like they are good friends. I wish I knew more people at this studio.

The thoughts and concerns bounce around in my head.

But once I've finished class and I wake from savasana feeling new, I am calm and refocused.

And here's what I keep coming back to: the practice of yoga is meant to draw you closer to your true self. It is meant to open your physical body and your compassionate heart. It is meant to help you heal you, to help you feel more at home with yourself, to develop your spiritual journey.

Yoga is not a popularity contest. It is not a chance to show off or try to impress others.

Sometimes I forget this; I get caught up thinking that if only I could hold a pose for longer, or stretch further, I would be a real yogi. If only I was friends with the teachers, if they knew my name, then I'd really belong at the studio.

I am grateful that yoga is here to humble me. I am grateful that the practice helps me overcome fear and insecurity. I am grateful for the peace that yoga brings when I connect in with its true benefits, the internal ones. 

Namaste.