The concept on Monday was to bring a little awareness to the relationships in our lives. On Tuesday we looked at a way in which the awareness game can enrich our lives and how as we shift our attention, we actually can begin to improve our experience of our lives. Today, we look at one key issue I think comes up for most people at some point on the mat. Judgment.

We judge ourselves for all kinds of things on the mat. How we look, how we feel, how we perceive we compare to others, how we think we “measure up.” But, if we take the actual teachings of yoga as support, not just exercise, then we can begin to see how coming to the mat is a wonderful way to work with the judgment we have held for ourselves. Then we can begin to let it go.

The starting point:

To notice when it happens.

If you notice a judging thought on the mat, or in your life, just pause and gently say (in the mind) “judgment.” Really, this process needs no other help. As you begin to see how often that happens,  a process will begin for yourself that happens naturally. You can find the ability to choose to bring the thoughts to some that are more kind, loving, and even enjoyable to yourself.

But we all must begin where we are. We all must begin by just noticing. Noticing in a loving, kind, and caring way may be the most wonderful gift you can give yourself. You don’t need to judge the judgment, either. It is a part of you doing its job. Now, it is simply time to let that become less of a subconscious experience. Now you are able to bring it out and acknowledge it, then let it go.

Yoga Pose of the Day: Extended Side Angle –  Utthita Parsvakonasana

Yoga Concept of the Day: Be gentle with yourself as you begin to become aware of judgment and let it go.