For me, yoga is a practice of self-inquiry, and it all begins with awareness.
Awareness is about bringing the unconscious into consciousness. When we shed light on our ingrained patterns and habits, we can start making choices that aren't solely based on outdated automatic reactions. We can learn to discern what's best for us, what our body and mind truly need.
Awareness is key to self-empowerment, but with so many external demands, it's not easy to tune into ourselves and be fully present in our bodies. But here's the thing: awareness doesn't always require stillness and quiet. You don't need a yoga mat and candles to notice how you're interacting with yourself and your environment.
Next time you're brushing your teeth (hopefully, you're barefoot), take note: How am I standing? Don't try to change anything right away, just notice. I have a tendency to lift the inner edges of my feet, standing on the outer edges. It's an unconscious habit that I try to catch, and I've noticed it's worse when I'm anxious or tired. Does it matter? It depends. In my case, I've investigated and explored and come to the conclusion that, yes, it matters. So I work on it, carefully and without judgment.
Although we can do these somatic exercises in daily life, we're not inclined to. This is where our yoga practice comes in. We lay out our mats, light our candles, and give ourselves the space and time to notice and explore. Through the practice of mindful intentional movement and breath, we learn the art of awareness.
