| Why it’s yoga: Art connects us to each other and to the world in deep and meaningful ways. Svadhyaya, Sanskrit for “self-study,” usually translates as study of the scriptures. But many of us find our truth through art. Take it in, and wake up!
7. Attend a talk, panel, or reading. Tickle your brain. Learn something new, or discover something you already “knew” but couldn’t articulate.
Why it’s yoga: Raja yoga uses the mind to connect to Spirit. When you hear something that resonates, you get that hit of connection— which is the true meaning of yoga. “Yuj,” the root of the word yoga, means to yoke or connect two things together. Person to person, spirit to Spirit.
8. Wander outside at night. If you’re near the shore, head for the beach. In the city? Find the darkest spot or highest rooftop, as close to the sky as possible. Have a look up at the stars. August is primetime for shooting stars, so settle in and await a vision!
Why it’s yoga: Yoga is about bringing the ego down to “right size.” Gazing up at the endless home of countless celestial bodies has a way of putting our little human struggles into perspective.
9. Try a new activity. Sailing, fishing, clamming, pickleball, croquet, labyrinth walking, paddleboarding, truffle hunting, bungie jumping, slack lining . . . . Invite your body-mind into unknown territory. Move a muscle, change a thought!
Why it’s yoga: Yoga casts aside all of our back-rounding, shoulder tightening, stress-inducing postural habits and replaces them with new, weird, and ultimately healthy patterns, changing us from the outside in. Any new physical activity will open up vistas in your mind and heart.
10. Visit someone who is housebound, limited, or ill. You’ll light up their day and feel a surge of gratitude for how fortunate you are.
Why it’s yoga: The Buddhist practice of metta asks us to practice lovingkindness to all beings everywhere. It’s a tall order, so start local! |
