Balance is about finding a middle ground, a sustainable center between extremes. Try imagining a place of balance by visualizing the fulcrum of a see-saw. That fulcrum represents what balance looks like in a concrete form.
When you think of balancing yourself, try keeping this image in mind. There is nothing wrong with the occasional "unhealthy" indulgence, but like with the see-saw, each motion in one direction, is liable to create some ripple in the opposite direction. Balance means finding an equilibrium between opposing points. Rather than judge your choices as "healthy" or "unhealthy", just avoid getting lost in too much of any one thing. Eat the cookie, but then, maybe take a walk or eat a carrot. When the mind dwells on a worry or something negative, notice what comes up but then take the time to look at positives in the situation, or at something that brings you joy.
Your asana practice presents a great venue for playing with balance. Focus on finding your center, that fulcrum to your see-saw. Memorize how that point feels, ground yourself there, and then experiment with moving around it. As you extend away from that point, how do you remain balanced? Notice how the lines of energy in each posture radiate around your center. When we lose track of that balancing point, we struggle in our postures: such is also true in the rest of our lives.
Today, focus on your balance and see what you discover.
Still flying
10 years ago
