This week, I am inspired by a Rumi poem called “The Guest House”.
The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
Right from the very first time I read this poem, I was struck by how powerful it is. Every time I read it, I always need a few moments of contemplation afterwards. To think that Rumi wrote this poem in the 13th century! I realize life really hasn’t changed much!
Sometimes when we practice yoga, we find ourselves overwhelmed by emotions. For me, I have only experienced this a few times. I have talked to others, who experience strong emotions almost every time they practice.
Why is this??
My teacher refers to yoga as a training for the soul. We step on the mat, we start some deep breathing, we move our bodies in ways we normally wouldn’t and then we rest and let it all sink in. Seems simple, but sometimes the most simple things in life are the most powerful. Yoga has been practiced for 5000 years! This isn’t just a fitness fad, in order to tighten your butt. Yoga is technology that has been finely tuned to your soul.
Everything we experience in life, can be stored within the physical body. I have heard some instructors say “We hold issues in our tissues”. So, when we move our bodies, in to these weird, awkward and wonderful shapes and then we direct and control the breath, we start to unlock those issues. Sometimes, when these emotions arrive at our door, we are unsure of where they are coming from. The key is to invite them in. I know my go to is to slam the door, yelling at them to come back later. Sadly, that doesn’t accomplish anything. Other than the fact that those emotions may show up even stronger next time.
When these emotions do knock, this is our opportunity to put into practice what we learn during our yoga practice. First of all, say “hello”, acknowledging the emotion. Then become aware of your body, what sensations are you experiencing, along with this emotion? How is your breath responding to the emotion? What do you need next? Maybe a little movement- a walk, a run or some yoga. Maybe your journal and some quiet time. Maybe a chat with your best friend or a cuddle with your fur baby. This process may take a day or years, there is no timeline when you are doing your soul work.
Do you have “go to” techniques when you are working with your emotions? I would love to hear them.
Until next time,
Sandra