We need to practice yoga more than ever, offering kindness and compassion and extending love from the hearts. South of our border shadows a dark front, imposing hatred and anger. We unite on our mats, collectively, coming to breathe and to share sacred space. Unifying our solidarity that racism and discrimination have no space in our hearts, we move through the asanas releasing the energy of fear and anxiety. Without the fluidity of yoga, the negativity solidifies instilling angst and hostility that we have to somehow push back, but we don’t, we must let go…
The feelings of anger and resentment rise up when listening to or watching media people who choose to foster beliefs of white supremacy and bigotry. As a practicing yoga instructor and humanitarian, I pronounce, “we stand for peace”. While stretching our minds to comprehend the rationale of those striking out at society with hatred and violence, (what are they thinking?), as practicing yogis, we can turn it around and encourage them to evolve from the edges of our mat. We share a common space in our hearts for us ALL to witness, one human race. Accepting and embracing our differences, honoring different religions, creeds and cultures. Sharing diversity, which formed the very country in which we live.
We must come back to sharing a sacred space and collectively coming together to be in peace, in stillness. Extending compassion and kindness and understanding through yoga, we are emanating acceptance and sending love and light to those who suffer with apathy and ignorance. Recently, I read “Racism is a Heart Disease, And It’s Curable” by Ruth King (Feb. 2017) in Tricycle’s Teachings for Uncertain Times.
“It requires a transplant, a surgical intervention of mindfulness and heartfulness. To heal the heart, we must understand the mind,” says King. What an eloquent way to stretch the mind to the heart. That’s the journey, coming to a place of intentional mindfulness, holding postures, practicing ujjayi breaths and releasing tension, surrendering into a place of acceptance. Practicing yoga helps to soften us, so we may find balance and collectively reclaim our power and vitality, offering peace and kindness unto the world.
Corrina Chase, B.A., CYA-RYT 200, Reiki Master/Teacher