“Let go of what no longer serves you and make way for what is meant to be!!”
Aparigraha – Letting Go!!
In our yoga classes we have sometimes reflected upon “attachment” (Aparigraha in yoga philosophy) reminding ourselves that our mind goes where our energy flows – in other words we become what we think about. Therefore it is so worthwhile focusing on what we would like to be or have in life, rather than what we do not want.
In this day and age, with constant stimulation to have more, buy more etc, it can be so difficult to allow ourselves to be with what we already have and spend time really appreciating this, rather than wishing we had more or wishing our lives were different……..
“taking the time to smell the roses” is such a beautiful calming phrase … but how often do we actually do this? .. actually stop, listen and be with what we have and what we are already? Taking time to find stillness and peace in life can be so very powerful.
Non-Greed, Non-Grasping, Non-Attachment
Aprarigraha, one of the yoga philosophies, is usually defined as “non-greediness”; “non-grasping” and “non-attachment”. Only having in life what we really need encourages us to separate our true needs from what are merely short term desires or wants of the mind. Grasping at life and material possessions can make lasting happiness hard to attain because the list of what we desire tends to spiral upward .. and no sooner have we gained one thing than we move on to wanting something else…
Instead of longing for more… it can be worthwhile for our wellbeing to take the time to appreciate what we already have – and what is available at no cost .. fresh air, good memories, a country not at war, creation of dishes to nourish us, friends, a healthy body, loving family, a walk in nature or some uplifting literature, the sun on our faces ……
Sometimes we become over attached to things or people and it can be liberating to let go of that which no longer serves us. By ridding ourselves of unnecessary thoughts and possessions which take up space in our heads and home we can feel much more at peace. It can be as simple as every time we buy something new, throwing out something old, or perhaps letting go of a person who drains us of energy when we see them. Just as the leaves let go each autumn to allow time to renourish internally, so can we.
In our Yoga Classes ….
In class we often use the breath to inhale deeply and as we exhale, let go of negative thoughts and feelings that are no longer benefit us ….
We can also practice letting go of painful memories…… Forgiveness can sometimes help this process by bringing freedom from attachment to thoughts. It also releases energy spent holding onto blame, anger and hatred…., none of which serve us in any way apart from filling us with negative thoughts
In life – as can be observed in our yoga practice – we can expect too much of ourselves. We can gently alter this by doing the best we can, and then compassionately let go – emotionally, physically and mentally. Accept and surrender to what we have done and stay open to guidance from within – we all have the power within us to trust and follow our inner wisdom.
Finally it can be a real joy to practice self care because, as you know, we cannot give from an empty cup. When we are feeling under pressure and insecure we can cling to people who are close to us. However, what we can forget is that each of us already has all we need within us to access our inner strength and innate wisdom. By nurturing ourselves, we will find ways to be strong and centred so we can be secure in our own independence and deep rootedness.
Our yoga practice can help us be and do all of the above .. it gives us the space, time to ground and find stability and a chance to connect with that deeper part of ourselves – the place where we can begin to make changes.
Gratitude Journaling
A wonderful way to work with Aparigraha is to have a gratitude journal and by completing it every day we will notice changes occur. One yogi wrote:
“I started a gratitude journal about two years ago when I had a miscarriage. I was absolutely devastated and I found it hard to get out of my sadness. The journal I found is an App on the iPhone so it was really easy to use and something I wouldn’t forget to do. Each night I would record what I felt in gratitude for that day or in life in general. The simple practice really helped bring me back to a positive outlook on life.
‘if you can’t change it, then change the way you think about it’ and I found a daily gratitude journal helped me maintain a positive outlook each and every day, even the tough ones.”
Aparigraha can also be about being too attached to how we feel we should look or be. For example when practising yoga, we can be attached to the idea that it might make us fit, flexible, slim, more at peace ….., however, if we just allow the postures to be what they are – without overthinking them – and gently notice their effect on our body and mind, unimaginable peace and wellbeing unravel within us!! It works, I promise!
This coming half term we will focus on the creation of core strength, building inner resilience and stability to mind and body. I so look forward to seeing you again and sharing the wonderful practice of yoga ….
🧘♀️😊 MINDED YOGA FOR NEXT HALF AUTUMN TERM 2025 🧘♀️😊
GENERAL YOGA CLASSES
MONDAYS – CHARMOUTH VILLAGE HALL 4pm – 5pm
3rd November – 8th December
Block of 6 sessions – £54.00
TUESDAYS – CHARMOUTH RD LYME REGIS 5.50pm – 7.00pm
Hybrid Class – In Person and Online
4th November – 9th December
Block of 6 sessions – £54.00
Breathwork, postures to release, strengthen, flex and relax the whole body & mind, all ending with 10 minutes of deep guided relaxation
YOGA TO RELIEVE STRESS. CHRONIC PAIN & FIBROMYALGIA
TUESDAYS – UPLYME OASIS (RHODE LANE) 2.00pm – 3.30pm
4th November – 9th December
Block of 6 sessions – £48.00
On a chair or mat; a gentle yoga class with a focus on a different tool each week to release stress, alleviate pain, bring a nourishing night’s sleep and calm the fluctuating mind
YOGA TO SOOTHE THE MIND
WEDNESDAYS – CHARMOUTH RD LYME REGIS 9.15am-10.15am
5th November – 10th December
Block of 6 sessions – £54.00
A more gentle yoga class with a focus on a different tool each week to release anxiety & stress, boost low mood, bring a nourishing night’s sleep and calm the fluctuating mind
Private Integrative Yoga Psychotherapy Sessions
If you would like to work through emotional challenges ,trauma, anxiety, low mood or any other life challenges, I currently have availability for private Integrative Yoga Psychotherapy sessions. I work with you as an individual, allowing you to lead the sessions and explore your inner self using your body as information. My role is to provide the understanding, compassion, and acceptance you may need to help you feel empowered to make the right choices or changes to support you to wellness and lead the life you would like to live. Finding a relationship with the right therapist can be key; for a FREE 15 minute chat then please either send me an email or give me a call.
For more about me, my journey and what I offer please see: https://www.judithdavismindedyoga.co.uk/
Namaste x