Transitions
For most of us change is difficult, even if it is undertaken by choice. If it is imposed upon us, the difficulty is compounded. Whatever the case, change is uncomfortable because it involves moving away from the familiar and predictable towards the little known or completely foreign.
However, our lives are a continuous journey from one physical, mental, emotional or spiritual place to another. Certainly, this journey is punctuated by periods of repose, when we settle in, adopt new routines and enjoy the view but it’s not long before we are on the road again. Anything in life can change, at any time, bringing us everything from joy to sorrow. How do we best weather these changes, particularly if they are severely disruptive to our lives or sense of self?
Yoga philosophy suggests that the best way to live in a constantly changing world is to be present, aware and experiencing each moment as it is, without clinging to “self”, to our attachments or aversions. Each of the eight limbs of yoga lead us in this direction. The articles in this issue demonstrate how one or more of the practices have helped the authors through periods of change, through transitions that were everything from beautiful to difficult.
In her article “Change is Constant”, Mahan Khalsa says, “yoga has supported me in finding my inner strength, accepting what IS and navigating my way through it”. That’s a thread that runs through all of our theme articles in this issue and a sentiment that, I believe, all yoga practitioners can echo.
Joanne Preece
Editor
The articles published in Canadian Yogi represent the views of the writers. Canadian Yogi is a forum for our members to exchange ideas and information. Articles do not necessarily represent the Canadian Yogi or the Canadian Yoga Alliance’s position.
For most of us change is difficult, even if it is undertaken by choice. If it is imposed upon us, the difficulty is compounded. Whatever the case, change is uncomfortable because it involves moving away from the familiar and predictable towards the little known or completely foreign.
However, our lives are a continuous journey from one physical, mental, emotional or spiritual place to another. Certainly, this journey is punctuated by periods of repose, when we settle in, adopt new routines and enjoy the view but it’s not long before we are on the road again. Anything in life can change, at any time, bringing us everything from joy to sorrow. How do we best weather these changes, particularly if they are severely disruptive to our lives or sense of self?
Yoga philosophy suggests that the best way to live in a constantly changing world is to be present, aware and experiencing each moment as it is, without clinging to “self”, to our attachments or aversions. Each of the eight limbs of yoga lead us in this direction. The articles in this issue demonstrate how one or more of the practices have helped the authors through periods of change, through transitions that were everything from beautiful to difficult.
In her article “Change is Constant”, Mahan Khalsa says, “yoga has supported me in finding my inner strength, accepting what IS and navigating my way through it”. That’s a thread that runs through all of our theme articles in this issue and a sentiment that, I believe, all yoga practitioners can echo.
Joanne Preece
Editor
The articles published in Canadian Yogi represent the views of the writers. Canadian Yogi is a forum for our members to exchange ideas and information. Articles do not necessarily represent the Canadian Yogi or the Canadian Yoga Alliance’s position.