Finding Balance

Balance in life as in yoga is something that requires continuous, mindful effort. We have to look within ourselves and be aware of the things we do, eat, say and feel in order to grow and create equilibrium. Running around all day in auto pilot makes it hard to be mindful of the choices we make, tipping the scales of balance either towards too much or not enough; overeating or forgetting to eat; being too harsh or not being vocal, etc.

Push yourself too hard in yoga and you’re bound to end in injury. Don’t push yourself enough and you’ll unlikely improve. Push yourself too hard in life and you’re bound to burn out. Don’t push yourself enough and you won’t reach your dreams. Both extremes tend to happen when we aren’t being mindful of our actions, or care to look at the “why” behind the way we behave.

I’m in a constant tug of war between ambition and self care. I have to remind myself that the best choices are made when I’m aware and present. In times where I want to do it all, I need to learn to say no. When I’m giving too much of my time and attention to my phone and others, I need to find moments of disconnect. When I’m too focussed on things that are toxic to me, I need to make time for myself and time for my more meaningful relationships. When I’m not feeling my best, I need to accept that that is ok too.

Searching for balance is an ongoing, life long effort of mindfulness and introspection that will ultimately lead us to more meaningful lives.

And remember to smile often and keep things light. The less weight you give things the less they’ll unsettle your balance!