In my first blog, I described yoga as a means of expanding consciousness. Today, I invite you to explore that definition, and how it applies to your life.

As a reminder for the more seasoned yogis, and an introduction to those who are new, the term ‘yoga’ means union. Under this umbrella, terms fly around constantly: mind/body union, body/breath connection, harmony in mind, body and spirit… the purpose and goal of yoga has been morphed, re-interpreted and presented in myriad forms since making its debut in North America.

What I am seeking to do here is provide you with the fundamental basis of the practice, as it was traditionally intended, so for those who wish to truly delve into it there is a solid foundation of understanding on which to rest.

We are multidimensional beings. Different aspects of ourselves manifest on physical, mental, emotional and energetic levels. The practice of yoga serves to develop an ever-increasing awareness of these facets, but it does not end with the cessation of asana, breath or meditation. Rather, yoga has the potential to become a lifestyle, a practice that moves beyond the mat to infuse each moment, never separate from daily life.

The root of this path of self-discovery is cultivating what is known as ‘Witness Consciousness’. This awareness is one of witnessing your experience not with judgment, but with compassionate self-acceptance. The value in this is that you become increasingly comfortable with the physical, mental and emotional sensations of being fully human, allowing yourself to take in their entire spectrum, without becoming identified or overwhelmed by them.

In our present world, days and lives are laden with criticism, self-destruction, struggle, addiction… all behaviours signaling a severe disconnection with ourselves, and a lack of self-love.

Yoga asserts that we are born perfect, pure and whole and seeks to re-establish our union with this truth. As we grow and move through the inevitable challenges of life, we form often-unconscious patterns of defenses, cutting ourselves off from this vital reality.

One needs only to observe the sparkle in a child’s eyes and radiance of their being to realize that this perspective is not one that is new, but that is buried deep within us as adults and crying out to be remembered and heard. When you begin to do this, you bring balance into your life, consciously maintaining the purity and love of childhood, while simultaneously integrating it with the sophistication and intelligence of adulthood. Thus, you re-connect mind and body, head and heart, and enjoy what it is to be fully alive; leaving no stone unturned, no part of yourself forgotten.

TRY THIS: Regardless of your choice of style, location, or time of yoga practice, you can cultivate this attitude. I strongly encourage you to try developing a witness state in your practice by connecting to your body and breath, stepping outside the regular judgments and expectations of your mind to experience things, as they are, with acceptance. Know that your mind will put up a fight, that it will be difficult to tame. It’s okay. That’s what it does. Don’t judge that either, just notice it, and bring it back to your breath. Surrender to and embrace the process as it unfolds for you and your unique place in life.

Namaste.