Why Embodiment Matters

Let it live through you.

Embody the feeling of presence.

So you’ve reflected on 2023 and set some intentions or New Year’s resolutions for 2024 and, so far so good! You’re maintaining the commitment you made to practice three times a week and your body is starting to feel good! You’re sleeping a little better too, and it feel's easier to skip the wine with dinner because you are committed to a 7.30am class. Bonus.

All in all, it feels good, you set realistic goals and you’re achieving them. But, you’re not yet getting the emotional benefits you’ve heard about, like deepening awareness, greater perspective and less reactivity.

Take the awareness you are cultivating off the mat and into your life, and let it live through you.

Ask yourself; am I concentrating and honing my attention while practicing? Am I tuning into my body, heart and mind-state? Am I allowing myself to be, without judgement, just as I am - trusting the process, and the power of the practice itself.

If the answer is yes, then it’s time to take the awareness you are cultivating off the mat and into your life, and let it live through you. Practice embodying the feeling of presence and the subtle sensations of breath, in your daily life. Observe how your awareness evolves. Awareness is key to emotional regulation... more on emotional regulation next week.