Transitions

“We have more possibilities available in each moment than we realize.” 

-Thich Nhat Hahn

A hint of autumn is in the air!  Can you feel it?

John and I just finished sending out the yoga studio's August newsletter where I talked about how this particular month is a transitional month for many of us.  It's a month where we start to make the change from a more laid back summer schedule to one that is focused on back-to-school or regular work routines.  It often marks the end of our vacation time and the beginning of our "buckle down" and get back to work frame of mind.  August also signifies a shift from the hot and sticky dog days of summer, towards the golden beginnings of autumn - still hot but with a tinge of coolness creeping in around the edges.

Transitions are often overlooked as unimportant, but as our practice teaches us time and time again, transitions are often places where the most transformation occurs. In the slow pause between two things (postures, breath, activities, etc.), we are given an opportunity to observe changes in the body, mind, and spirit.  With every transition we have the opportunity to grow. They give us the time to pay attention and find clarity.

How we approach transitions on our yoga mat is a strong indicator of how we deal with the shifts that occur in our daily lives.  For instance, where does your mind go when you release a posture? Are you still connected to your breath or are you already thinking of what's coming next?  Do you get on your mat and sort of shuffle into a pose, not really paying attention to the pose until you're in it?  Do you heavily thump your foot to the floor when coming out of Warrior III (Virabhadrasana C) or do you set it down gracefully and with control? Do you roll impatiently out of Halasana (Plough Pose), landing with a crash on your back? Or do you stay connected to your core and roll down slowly? In terms of asana practice - and life in general - smooth transitions require mindfulness, strength and a sense of ease and grace. Today as you practice, embrace the transitions from pose to pose as postures in and of themselves. Let's call them "Transition-asanas"! Welcome what each shift has to offer you!

Until next time...please take a moment to watch this short video by Thich Nhat Hahn.  Thich Nhat Hahn is a Zen monk and has been such an inspiration to me and my practice.

“Drink your tea slowly and reverently, as if it is the axis

on which the world earth revolves - slowly, evenly, withoutrushing toward the future. Live the actual moment.Only this moment is life.” -Thich Nhat Hahn