Finding Balance-On & Off the Mat
A complete yoga practice consists of a series of poses and their counterposes. For example, a forward fold balances a backbend, and child's pose counters bridge; every movement needs its opposite for us to feel balanced. Imagine taking a yoga class that only includes side bends in one direction—you’d probably walk away feeling off-kilter and maybe even a bit cranky!
See for yourself: From a standing or seated position, bend to the right a few times without bending to the left. Then, close your eyes and notice how you feel. Does one side of your body feel longer or more open than the other? Do you have the urge to bend the other way? For now, resist that urge and simply notice the imbalance.
Just as our bodies need a full range of movement to feel balanced, so does our nervous system. Overexposure to conflict and negative news can leave us feeling stuck in tension. To feel regulated, we need to counter those effects with activities that bring joy, safety, and connection. Watching a funny or heartwarming show, cuddling a pet, taking a hot bath, or getting a massage can help the body relax and restore balance.
Of course, this isn’t about ignoring what’s happening or bypassing difficult emotions. It’s about ensuring we’re resourced enough to engage with life in a sustainable and healthy way.
When we feel anxious, movement helps release that energy. When we feel down or depressed, we need activities that create comfort and safety. By tuning into what our bodies and minds need, we can restore a sense of balance and well-being.
I invite you to spend some time reflecting on your own experience: What states do you tend to exist in most often? Are you frequently in high alert, holding onto stress and tension? Or do you find yourself feeling sluggish, disconnected, or withdrawn? By bringing awareness to these patterns, you can start to explore what practices help bring you back into balance. (I am always happy to help you brainstorm ideas if you'd like some help.)
Just as every yoga pose has a counterpose, our minds and bodies need to experience the full range of movement and emotion to stay balanced. By noticing when we’re stuck—physically or emotionally—we can intentionally shift toward activities that restore harmony, helping us feel more centered and at ease. I invite you to explore
Okay, now you can bend the other way. 😊
Want to explore more ways to find balance on and off the mat? Join me for yoga, where you can play with different ways to move your body and connect with others in a supportive space.
