When I began my yoga journey, I was searching for more of an escape. A place to take shelter from life and its daily stressors. However, I quickly learned that it was the complete opposite. The more I brought myself to the mat, the more that I discovered about myself. A shift took place inside, and I had the desire to dig deeper into self-discovery.
Svadhyaya, the fourth Niyama of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras, literally translates to “self-study.” It is a process that allows us humans to observe our personality, ego, emotional needs, and soul. It’s important that we take the time develop and nurture a meaningful relationship with ourselves. The more we understand ourselves, the better we can address the things that are going on inside our minds and bodies.
It can be intimidating and even a little scary to take the first steps, so I’ve shared some tools to help you along the way.
1. Meditation
Meditation is one of the best practices that is rooted in self-knowing. It allows you to break free from distractions and sit with your thoughts. By practicing meditation in your daily life, you can cultivate awareness and mental clarity.
3. Journaling
A tool that gives an opportunity to reflect on your thoughts and provides a safe space to get those thoughts out of your head. By journaling, you can stay present and gain new perspective.
Checking out these journaling prompts if you’re stuck: 20 Journaling Prompts I Swear By to Get You Out of Your Head
3. Study Wisdom Texts
Studying the origins and teachings of yoga can cultivate spiritual guidance and self-realization.
Check out these book recommendations: 9 Best Yoga Books for Beginners
4. Solitary Experiences in Nature
Going on a hike, soaking up the sun in your hammock, or simply laying in a field of grass. By spending more time in nature, your senses are heightened, and you become more aware of the present moment.
5. Practice Yoga
Practicing yoga awakens your senses and provides an opportunity to cultivate an intimate relationship with your mind and body. As you flow from pose to pose, you’re subjected to inner dialog and learn to respond with compassion instead of frustration.
While you don’t have to adopt all the tools at once, I encourage you to give them a try and learn something new about yourself. So, the next time you’re searching for an escape, perhaps try going within? Contact Mystikal Yogini to begin your yoga journey today!
