Finding Balance Through a Regular Yoga Practice

Hey everyone, welcome to September!

As we transition into September, a season known for fresh starts and renewed routines, it’s a perfect time to consider the power of a regular yoga practice. For many of us, September brings a return to structure: kids are back in school, summer vacations are behind us, and we find ourselves settling into new rhythms. There’s something comforting about this shift, a return to routine that feels grounding. And just as children thrive on the predictability of their daily schedules, adults, too, benefit from the stability that routine can bring.

In the practice of yoga, routine—or abhyasa—is highly valued. Abhyasa is the Sanskrit word for “consistent practice,” a cornerstone of yoga philosophy. It emphasizes the importance of showing up for yourself regularly, cultivating a sense of discipline, and committing to the journey of self-discovery and growth. This regularity isn’t just about forming habits; it’s about creating a container in which transformation can occur. 

Abhyasa is about consistency, not perfection. It’s about committing to our practice with determination and resilience, even (especially!) when life is challenging. This dedication helps us cultivate tapas, the inner fire or discipline that fuels our spiritual growth. Meanwhile, vairagya encourages us to remain unattached to the outcomes of our practice, teaching us to focus on the journey rather than the destination. Together, these principles remind us to practice regularly, with effort, but without being attached to specific results.

In yoga and Ayurveda, there is a strong emphasis on aligning our daily routines with the natural rhythms of the earth. The early morning hours, known as Brahma Muhurta—the “time of the creator”—are considered ideal for spiritual practice. During this time, the energy is fresh, the mind is quiet, and there’s a natural stillness that allows us to connect more deeply with our inner selves.

A morning routine rooted in yoga can set the tone for your entire day. This doesn’t mean you have to wake up at dawn or engage in a rigorous practice. It could be as simple as taking a few moments to breathe deeply upon waking, practicing a short sequence of asanas to awaken your body, or sitting in meditation to clear your mind. The key is to choose practices that resonate with you and make them a consistent part of your morning ritual.

By starting our day with mindfulness and intention, we align ourselves with the natural rhythm of the universe. This practice, rooted in the philosophy of dinacharya (daily routine) from Ayurveda, suggests that living in harmony with nature’s cycles can help balance our doshas (body-mind constitutions), promote health, and enhance our overall well-being.

The beauty of yoga is that it meets us where we are. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or just beginning your journey, there’s always a way to incorporate yoga into your daily routine. Your practice doesn’t have to be lengthy or complicated; it just needs to be consistent. Even a few minutes each day can create a profound shift in your body and mind.

Consider starting with simple, accessible practices. Perhaps it’s a few rounds of Sun Salutations to greet the day or a few moments of mindful breathing and meditation. Over time, as you build your routine, you might find yourself naturally wanting to expand your practice, incorporating more asanas, pranayama (breath control), or deeper meditation techniques.

Yoga philosophy teaches us that it’s not about how long or intense our practice is, but rather about the quality of attention and intention we bring to it. By cultivating sankalpa—a heartfelt intention—we give our practice a deeper meaning and purpose, transforming it into a ritual of self-care and spiritual nourishment.

In yoga, a dedicated practice is often referred to as sadhana. Sadhana goes beyond physical exercise; it is a spiritual discipline that encompasses the entire practice of yoga. It is a commitment to self-exploration, inner growth, and connecting with something greater than ourselves. Through sadhana, we cultivate svadhyaya (self-study), one of the Niyamas (ethical guidelines) outlined in the Yoga Sutras, encouraging us to turn inward and reflect on our thoughts, emotions, and actions.

Establishing a sadhana, or regular practice, helps us create a stable foundation for a deeper connection to our true selves. It’s about showing up on the mat not just to stretch or strengthen the body but to engage in a process of self-discovery, learning to observe our minds and hearts with compassion and curiosity.

As many of you know, a regular yoga practice offers countless benefits, both on and off the mat. Physically, it enhances flexibility, strength, and balance, promoting overall health and vitality. Mentally and emotionally, it reduces stress, increases mindfulness, and cultivates a sense of inner peace and calm. Spiritually, it helps us connect with our higher selves, deepen our understanding of yoga philosophy, and align with our true purpose.

By committing to a regular practice, we create a space for ourselves to slow down, tune in, and find balance. We learn to navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and equanimity, cultivating santosha (contentment) in the present moment, no matter what challenges may come our way.

If you want to deepen your yoga practice and establish a regular routine supporting your growth and well-being, consider joining our True Form® Yoga Teacher Training. This program is designed to help you explore the many layers of yoga, from the physical postures to the more profound philosophical teachings. It’s an opportunity to connect with a community of like-minded individuals and receive guidance and support as you develop your practice.

Whether you’re interested in teaching or want to learn more about the philosophy and life-changing practice of what is genuinely and authentically yoga, our training program offers a comprehensive and enriching experience. Join us for our Info Session on Saturday, September 7, or click here for more information. We’d love to support you on your journey.

As we move into this new season, let’s embrace the opportunity to create new routines, deepen our practice, and commit to our personal growth and well-being! Remember, yoga is not just something we do; it’s a way of being. It’s about showing up for ourselves with patience, presence, and an open heart, day after day. Let’s commit to this journey together and discover the transformative power of a regular yoga practice. See you on the mat!