If you’ve ever felt this way (and who hasn’t at one point or another?) or are currently experiencing these feelings, you're in a rut. The good news is that this is normal. The bad news is it can be hard to figure out what to do next, especially when it comes to feeling this way about yoga — something that is so good, you feel guilty for feeling this way. Don't! This is actually a good thing and means you are growing and so are your needs.
So, how do you navigate these waters? It all comes down to awareness, welcoming change, and delving deeper into your yoga practice.
Awareness
Take a moment after class or the next day or even throughout the rest of the week to contemplate your feelings and where they stem from. Are you ready to try a different style of yoga? Do you want to move to more advanced poses or draw in more pranayama and meditative practices? Has your comfort with your instructor lulled you into a state of tuning the instructor out and just going through the motions? Is it none of the above or all of the above? There are so many possibilities and they are all relevant, because they belong to you and are at the core of your growth as a yogi and as a person making your way through the world.
Welcome Change
Move forward with the awareness of what you need and want in your practice, and find other classes that embrace them. Sometimes all it takes is a new voice, new location, and new way of approaching the poses to refresh your practice and continue your growth. As a yoga instructor, it’s hard for me to say this because I get attached to the people who come to my classes, however, I also don’t want anyone coming out of obligation and I know we all have different needs. I’ve been there before too, and the most important thing to me is that every person connects to what nurtures them on the mat. If I can be a part of that for even an hour, I’m honored.
Explore Yoga
There are so many books and websites about yoga. Explore it with the heart of an adventurer! Explore the philosophy, history, and the sister science of yoga, Ayurveda. These are just a few areas to seek out, and by delving into these other aspects of yoga, you can truly appreciate the full education of body and mind that yoga provides.
Continue to be mindful as you change and honor the feelings that come up with these changes. This is just one transitional time in your yogic journey and it truly is a beautiful time to honor and embrace because it confirms your passion for your practice, your growth as a student on and off the mat, and your desire to seek and be more.
