By Dr. Paul Jerard, E-RYT 500

How can Yoga improve self-acceptance? Practicing asanas (postures) is very different from practicing other physical exercises – not only does Yoga help the body, but it also enriches the mind. All of us suffer from insecurities, due to issues we have with ourselves. In order to live a healthy, fulfilled life, it is important to accept our imperfections and learn to accept ourselves.

Surprisingly, or unsurprisingly, depending on how well you research and practice Yoga, dedicating yourself to a Yogic lifestyle can help achieve a state of empowerment, which leads to complete self-acceptance. Yoga is dedicated to learning more about yourself. Therefore, it is important to commit, at least, part of your efforts toward self-discovery.

In order to cultivate self-empowerment and acceptance, it is important to not take any part of life too seriously. Be prepared to laugh at yourself. Do not force yourself into self-acceptance, but merely be open to it. Your feelings will change over time, and vary through the day; but ideally, you should feel more relaxed and in touch with yourself after each Yoga training session.

While practicing Yoga, do not force yourself during meditation, pranayama, or asanas. It will take time and patience before you reach your full potential. Instead, be satisfied that you are performing each technique to the best of your ability. While holding an asana, really focus on how your body feels, and how your breathing affects it. Feel the love from the part of the body you are stretching, and accept yourself for doing something healthy for your body.

It is important to never expect perfection in your Yoga practice. In each session, make it a goal to get in touch with your inner self and cleanse the mind of negative thoughts. While practicing meditation and pranayama, focus on how good you feel. If ever a thought enters your mind, such as: “I can’t do this.” – brush it out of your head and replace it with “I will do this.”

If you cannot fully perform a technique during a session, you must realize that, with time and practice, you will get it! End every asana practice with a minimum of five to ten minutes of meditation to cleanse the mind. This leaves your mind open to appreciate new experiences, which we often take for granted.

Dedicate any part of yourself to Yoga and you are sure to be a healthier, more relaxed, and happier person overall. Take each technique at your own pace, and commend yourself for what you have accomplished. Your mind will learn to appreciate you, and you will accept yourself. In truth, we are all works in progress. Yoga practitioners happily continue to walk the path toward self-acceptance, progress, and complete bliss.

© Copyright – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division

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