Discipline + Relaxation + Courage + Faith = Resilience
Resilience is not only the theme at SWC for March and April, it has become a buzzword everywhere, as we continue to find new ways of coping with the impact of the pandemic on our lives.
I like to look back to ancient wisdom to see what I can learn that will be of assistance today.
I always start with the Yoga Sutras. These pearls of wisdom, strung together in short verses, always provide a way to look at my experiences with new eyes.
Melissa McLauglin has written an article highlighting what she thinks the yoga sutras teach us about resilience.
To paraphrase, she says that “Discipline + Relaxation + Courage + Faith = Resilience.”
DISCIPLINE: Yoga Sutra 1:12: “These mental modifications are restrained by practice and non-attachment.” McLaughlin quotes Judith Lasater who says ““Whether you are driven or resistant, the medicine is the same: do what is truly possible with an unwavering commitment to giving yourself to the moment. Without this intention, practice becomes another task to be completed, and it loses its ability to transform. And transformation, or freedom, is the reason for all discipline.”
RELAXATION: Yoga Sutra 2:47: “By lessening the natural tendency for restlessness and by meditating on the infinite, posture is mastered.” McLaughlin says we can find relaxation through meditation. She suggests that we “meditate on the steady to become steady. Relax into the immovable.”
COURAGE: Yoga Sutra 1:3: “(When the thought waves of the mind are settled) then man abides in his true nature.”⠀McLadughlin notes that courage is not the absence of fear. Again she quotes Judith Lasater who says “The most important thing to know about courage is that it cradles your action even though you are afraid. You forge on anyway knowing that you are supported by an infinite latticework of the possible. You have all the tools you need already…”
FAITH: Yoga Sutra 1:20: "Wholeness is preceded by faith, energy, mindfulness, union, and awareness." McLaughlin says “Belief in yourself isn't a hooky aphorism. Faith in yourself is the fuel that drives you home.”
Go deeper here:
http://www.melissamclaughlinyoga.com/blog/2018/5/8/resilience
What do you think of these components of resilience? I think they are a great place to start your exploration of what resilience means for you!
With love and light,
Denise