What Yoga Teaches You: Harvest Peace for Yourself and the Planet

It’s harvest time in many parts of the world.  Today, Canada gave thanks for it’s blessings. For me, harvest is a time to think about how I’ve “grown” during the year, and how I hope to grow even more.  And when I make a list of what I’d like to work on, my yoga and meditation practices almost always top, or hover near the top of the list. 

There are countless reasons to get involved with yoga and meditation.  More than I can list here.  

But the single best reason to get involved in a well-rounded practice that encompasses both yoga and meditation is the sense of peace you gain from every move, every breath. 

Think about it. You increase your peace of mind.  You feel more at peace with the universe and nature.  You extend that sense of peace and mindfulness to others. 

At its core, yoga is all about achieving harmony with yourself, others and the universe.  The physical practice of yoga creates a natural realignment of your body, which leads to a natural realignment of your perception of life, and of who you are.

The act of meditation speaks for itself.  The central goal of meditation is to bring inner peace within ourselves in a positive and spiritual way.  Both complex and pure, a focused meditation practice will reap you the rewards of mindfulness and feeling present every day of your life.   

There are many organizations and individuals who believe that if you practice yoga or meditation in pursuit of world peace, the positive energy you produce from your practices will yield a global sense of well-being.  I don’t think they’re wrong. Think about it. If we all took a deep breath, were fully present and mindful before we acted, and took the time to become more centered through our yoga practices, wouldn’t the world be a more peaceful place?

Hard to believe (well, not really :-)), but I have “harvested” a few more wonderful reasons to build and grow my practice.  I hope I’ve given you a few more, too.

Peace.