I’ve been thinking about changing the name of my private facebook group for a while now. For years it has been called Yoga with Julie. Sometimes I get queries from people in the UK to join the group, which is not a problem but I know that they are actually seeking a yoga teacher named Julie with whom they have taken classes in person. Clearly we’re not the same person and it’s confusing for them. But also, I haven’t been convinced that the name Yoga with Julie actually conveys the full breadth and intent of what I’d like to share.
For many, the word “yoga” calls forth images of young, slim, bendy people clad in expensive, form-fitting and even revealing clothing, performing feats of acrobatics. That’s a very common, modern take on yoga. That’s not what yoga is about for me so that’s not what the group is about.
I’m thinking of changind the name to “Yoga Life with Julie” because that feels closer to the message I wish to convey. Yoga is not really about headstands or fancy performance postures. My training and my experience points to a much deeper and more accessible goal: the practice of yoga is about how you live life.
Checking in to notice how we’re feeling at any given moment. Am I in pain? Is my breath smooth or ragged? How is my balance? What supports would be helpful for finding ease in a posture or situation? Am I up to challenging myself a little today or am I wiser to stay in the range of pure ease and comfort?
Exploring body, breath, mind and spirit. What would happen if I lifted my big toe? What happens in my body when I receive bad news? Or good news? Or stand on one foot? How does that affect my breath, posture, jaw? How could I relieve the tension in my shoulders, the pain in my back, the anxiety or depression? How can I handle pain or great sadness? What would make this situation more positive? How can I be happy when life has thrown me a huge curveball? How can I improve my sleep? How could I be kinder to myself? How could I be more compassionate? Do I feel safe? How could I improve my relationships or contribute to the healing of others, and the earth? What would make this less scary? How can I feel peaceful in this crazy world?
Allowing ourselves a period of rest.
The questions that arise, the exploration, and the answers that may be found–they are personal. They are real. They require awareness and curiosity. This is the life stuff that we deal with every day. This is the stuff I want to share and discuss, in a safe and caring environment.
Yoga is not the answer but it opens up a space in the breath, body and spirit to discover the answers so that we can feel better, calmer, and happier in the challenges, and in the ease, of life. Whether you’re young and bendy or not.
(if you wish to join the private facebook group, please send me a message or search for it on facebook)