You are Ethereal in Essence
Our yoga practice goes far beyond the physical postures; it provides us with tools and wisdom to navigate life.
On Thursday, we created space for inner curiosity to guide our practice. We started by simply observing our breath, letting it be, without trying to control or change it. As we transitioned into Sama Vritti Pranayama—equal inhales and exhales—we invited ourselves to explore how adjusting the breath shifts the physical sensations within the body. Did tension begin to ease? Did space start to open within those tight areas? What is the narrative accompanying the sensation?
As we moved through our asanas, this sense of curiosity guided our every motion. With each new physical shape, we paid attention to the first thoughts that surfaced—thoughts like, "I’m too tight for this" or "I can’t do this pose." These first reactions are the brain falling into its most familiar patterns. Our minds, powerful as they are, can also be incredibly habitual, feeding us the same old narrative. But here’s the thing:
You are not responsible for your first thought. You are responsible for your second thought and first action.
What we think shapes how we see the world and interact with it. Your thoughts truly create your reality. If we believe the first thought that comes to mind, we risk holding ourselves back from growth—on and off the mat. In life, just as in yoga, your brain will opt for the path of least resistance, which often keeps you stuck in old, familiar patterns.
Negative thoughts lead to negative emotions, which distort how we experience life. Think about the difference between a day when you’re in a great mood—where even challenges can’t shake you—and a day when you’re feeling down, where every small inconvenience feels amplified. Our moods and mental states deeply influence how we perceive the world. This is why it’s so important to shift the narrative we tell ourselves.
The process of exploring alternative thoughts reveals how much our thoughts shape our emotions, interactions, and reality. By questioning these narratives, we can break free from false beliefs and experience life with more openness, curiosity, and peace.
As we settled into our meditation, we gently shifted our attention to the subtle flow of energy coursing through our bodies. This awareness created a charged current, moving stagnant Chi—our Life Force energy—and inviting us to connect with both our ethereal and earthly identities. It’s a reminder that you are not just a body, nor merely a mind. You are something far greater, a divine being having a human experience.
In this recognition of your divinity, there lies the empowering truth: you are the creator of your experiences. The thoughts and energy you cultivate shape the reality you move through. You are in control, not by force, but through the conscious awareness that you have the power to craft your life with intention.
In this space, as we moved stagnant energy, we tapped into the truth of who we are—divine creators of our own path. Let that awareness guide you, not only in your practice, but also in how you approach your everyday life. Remember, you are ethereal in essence, and with that, you hold infinite potential.
Keep returning to that place of curiosity, make conscious choices on how you want to feel a live in every moment, and see how it transforms how you interact with the world.
Alexandra
Balance and Harmony
Sama Vritti is rooted in the yogic concept of harmony between the body, mind, and spirit, emphasizing the intrinsic link between breath and consciousness. By focusing on breath control, one can calm the fluctuations of the mind. Activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and promote relaxation, this makes it an effective tool for managing anxiety.
Inhale. Exhale. Repeat.
Alexandra