Practising presence

As Noble Yoga grows, we find ourselves more often than not in our creative process where we are required to;

1.      Think ahead.

2.     Reflect on what’s just passed.

AND

3.     Choose which path to take (when you can’t even make out the formation of the path!)

Oh, and to do all three, simultaneously in the present.

Phew. This in and of itself is a practice.

How can you be fully engaged and aware of what is happening in the moment, without getting caught up in worries about the past or future?

Being present has its challenges. As well as the worries, there’s the citta vritti (mind chatter) and distractions, where we often find ourselves multi-tasking or thinking about other things whilst we go about our day. I’m sure I’m not alone when I share that this mindset creeps in on my mat. If you are simply “going through the motions” of the physical practice, you lose all the benefits. The same applies in life. So, if you are not present in life, can you really be practicing yoga?

When we are present, we can fully experience and appreciate the people and things around us. We are also more likely to notice the small pleasures in life; the sound of birds singing or the smell of the fresh jalapeno and cheese bloomer that’s made its way out of the oven (I know @helenrussellclark will agree).

Being present helps me to be more productive and effective in my daily life. When I’m fully focused on the task at hand, I am less likely to be distracted and more likely to do my best work. Presence creates conditions for flow state, but that’s a whole other post for another day.

At Noble Yoga, we’re committed to making presence a priority in our lives, so we can cultivate a greater sense of peace, happiness, and fulfilment. Remembering to bring energy to the things we can control and show up as our best selves, fully in the present.

Practice presence. Practice balance. Practice patience.

HIC ET NUNC. Here and now.

Love, Team Noble x