Final Stretch

The years go by as quickly as a 90-minute class. We are about to finish 365 days in the same fashion that we finish 26 postures. It starts out new and fresh (despite being familiar and routine), but before you know it, the ending sneaks up on you. For most of us, the year has taken a toll and we can feel a bit exhausted: however, the final stretch, just like in class, asks more of us, to dig into our reserves to finish strong.

And, the month of November begins that final stretch. It’s the holidays. Again. Whether we like it or not, it’s time to shove everything else aside and deal with what the holidays bring. Again. And, Mother Nature has set the stage. Cold air, wind, dark days, rain – these are not gentle reminders, but an in-your-face shout that this time of the year is here. Again. Like the trees naked and bare, we too, feel anxious and caught off guard: it’s already the holidays, and we might not be ready! Again.

The Camel pose, one of the most important postures, appearing toward the end of the series, is a posture many of us resist even though we can expect it at the same time each class. We have had one hour and 15 minutes to warm up to this posture, so the body is ready. However, it’s a pose that can make us feel exposed, vulnerable, anxious, light-headed and even nauseous. The holidays, too, have a similar feel. We know they are coming and yet, they too can bring mixed emotions and for some, even symptoms of illness. But, each holiday season, like each Camel pose, is an opportunity to grow.

Whether we are aware of it, the routine of the holidays is like a posture that we have a chance to perfect. The added tasks of buying gifts, planning and attending parties, visiting family and friends on top of doing our normal routines doesn’t change. We are still busy. But, like doing the Camel pose over and over again, we have a chance to release the personal drama and we begin feeling differently. Some might call it love, spirit, or peace, but whatever you call it and however long it takes to get there, you can sidestep the misery and get out of your own way. It’s this fight to survive the holidays year after year that can be our own way of strengthening our resolve to experience the Joy that is there. Every time. Every year. Perseverance can dissolve our stress and leave us with the finest gift of all – a chance to appreciate, give, serve, and enjoy one another. And, like being in the Camel pose, may you feel your heart open.
Michele