In our yoga practice we learn something about the art of attention. We stand at the front of our mat and place our feet straight forward. Not casually, but intentionally. When we are going into cobra, we notice the pressure of the mat on the palms of our hands, and at the same time we put part of our attention on the tips of our toes as they push gently into the mat. And as our focus increases, we may even be able to remember to notice our pubic bones as they maintain their downward pressure.
If we meditate, we are practicing the same skill. Through visualization, or attending to our breath, or focusing on a favorite mantra, we are increasing our attention muscle.
This skill, this ability to attend to the present, applies to our lives off the mat too. Our ability to focus on what matters most determines our success in all things: work, relationships, even our wellness.
Where is your attention lately?
As for me, it’s been on love. Big time! This weekend I’m getting married. We’ve been planning it for the last year, and I have to say, my sweet yoga practice has suffered. But in the same way that I notice the position of my lower back, the tension in my calves and hamstrings, and the drawing in of both arms during a downward dog, I’ve directed my attention to holding hands, sleeping in on the weekends, and sitting together at the table making wedding plans.
I can only hope that your yoga is bringing your life such beauty too!
