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Flexibility of Mind

I tried a new flexibility workout this morning and the instructor pointed out the importance of also maintaining flexibility of mind. Learning to relax and breathe through the stretch is something we can apply to much more than just our muscles. Practicing flexibility mindfully carries over powerfully to our daily interactions, reactions, relationships and thoughts.

I love how yoga is changing me. I feel my muscles and mind getting stronger every day. Which reminds me of a talk given in church recently. A lady spoke about meekness. She explained how the root of the word meek comes from the same Latin root for war horse and means power under control. A war horse is an excellent example of power under control for they are expected to ride fearlessly and flawlessly into battle amidst the chaos, confusion, and clamor of war. When we train our minds and muscles to be flexible we become a powerful, in-control, war horse. We can act, not re-act, amidst incoming assaults, from a calm and centered place.  

For anyone wondering how flexibility training can increase their awareness and improve much more than just their muscles, check out the messages the phrases convey that we often use to talk ourselves through some of the most exceedingly difficult and uncomfortable poses:

  • Relax into it
  • Don't Force it
  • Go Slow
  • Breathe
  • Take slow, deep breaths
  • Quiet your mind
  • Relaxing into the sensation
  • Look for sticky areas, identify them, then let them go--send your breath to and through them
  • Don't rush it. Just take your time and allow yourself to slowly open
Each statement has powerful applications. How could a few slow, deep breaths before responding to hurtful comments benefit you? When would quieting your mind for a few moments improve the quality of your day? What relationship could be more open if you just relaxed, and allowed things to open instead of forcing it? The list goes on. Breath. Relax. Open. Allow. It's that simple. Beautifully and powerfully, simple.

Flexibility of mind is as important to me as increasing the range of motion of my muscles. I want to be like the willow that bends in the wind instead of breaking. A flexible body and mind has already blessed my life immeasurably. I can only imagine how much more the daily practice will continue to increase my every day performance and pleasure.


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