Is your honeymoon with yoga over? Do you worry that the light excitement that made you fall in love with yoga in the beginning is gone forever?
Finding your yoga practice feeling lifeless and heavy can cause even the most experienced yogi to slip into a malease of doubt and uncertainty. One of the common obstacles of an ongoing and advancing yoga practice is in fact facing this naturally occurring plateau. In order to grow, you'll have to recognize that what yoga practice offers is an opportunity to see the potential for transformation in moments of difficulty and discomfort as well as moments of elation and ease.
You might be surprised to know that many yogis recall feeling this way at least once in their lifetime of practice. It's comforting to hear from those who've been through it that these periods often precede great epiphanies and breakthroughs that can sustain the lightness and vitality of your practice for years. But the period of difficulty, when you feel your time on the mat has turned to drudgery, is a key moment. It's the perfect time to ask yourself, why am I practicing yoga? Be very clear and honest when you answer, and take your time. You may want to consider this question over a period of days, weeks, or months. You may even change your answer as you continue your practice over the years. But initially, once you know your intention, you can begin to look for the method and means to support your purpose. Recognize you are not alone in this practice. You've acquired some knowledge and experience, and now it's time to find some inspiration.
