Before I jump into the discomfort surrounding this topic, allow me provide you all with a brief background:
I just spent the weekend dedicated to supporting a friend's sister who is facing infidelity in her marriage. Yesterday I had a deeply emotional conversation with my best friend. The sense of exhaustion, helplessness, sorrow and feeling powerless to make any real change to ease their suffering eventually led to a heated argument over the phone with my beloved sister, whom I cherish above all else.
Today, as I process my emotions and after a strong morning Ashtanga Practice, I can see that the main issue stems from my desire for their success and well-being which unfortunately often exceeds even their own aspirations. Ultimately, it involves striking a balance between offering support, understanding, and expressing my modest yet informed viewpoints; finding the fulcrum that balances our perspectives and expectations with our loved ones self-imposed limitations all the while acknowledging my own similar struggles.
From my personal experience and from interactions with numerous students and family members, it is evident that we all face a similar obstacle: the difficulty of engaging in activities we are not inclined to do. Whether it involves getting up early for yoga, meditating, or just going for a walk, these tasks can seem like significant challenges, particularly when the allure of staying cozy in bed or lounging on the couch is strong. However, it is important to acknowledge that it is during these instances of resistance that we have the greatest opportunity for personal growth.
The Nature of Resistance
Resistance is a natural part of the human experience. Our minds are wired to seek comfort, avoid pain, and stay within familiar boundaries. When faced with the prospect of doing something challenging, like rolling out of bed at the crack of dawn for yoga, our minds can come up with a myriad of excuses. "I’ll do it later," "I’m too tired," or "One day off won’t hurt," are all familiar 'negotiations'. Yet, it’s in these moments that we’re presented with an opportunity to transcend the limits we’ve set for ourselves.
The Importance of Discipline
Discipline is the bridge between intention and action. It’s the key to building habits that serve our highest good, even when we don’t feel like it. As yoga practitioners, we understand that discipline, or Tapas (one of the Niyamas in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras), is essential to personal growth. Tapas isn’t about punishing ourselves; rather, it’s about cultivating the inner fire that propels us forward, even in the face of discomfort.
When we consistently choose to engage in activities that we initially resist—like waking up early for practice—we’re training our minds to overcome inertia. Each time we push through resistance, we strengthen our willpower and deepen our commitment to our practice and therefore to our well-being.
Over time, what once felt like a burden becomes a source of joy and fulfillment.
Reframing the Experience
One of the most effective ways to move past resistance is to reframe how we perceive the task at hand. Instead of viewing it as something we "have to" do, we can shift our mindset to one of gratitude and opportunity. For instance, rather than dreading the early alarm, we can choose to see it as a chance to greet the day with mindfulness and intention. We can remind ourselves of the peace and clarity that comes from a morning meditation or the invigorating energy that follows a yoga session.
The Ripple Effect
The beauty of doing things we don’t want to do lies in the ripple effect it creates.
When we consistently show up for ourselves, even in small ways, we build self-trust and confidence. This sense of accomplishment spills over into other areas of our lives, empowering us to take on challenges with greater ease. We become more resilient, more adaptable, and more attuned to our true potential.
Even more impactful is the fact that our own discipline and commitment serve as an inspiration to others.
As a yoga teacher, I know my students look to me not just for instruction but also for guidance and encouragement. When they see me embodying the principles of discipline and perseverance, they’re more likely to follow suit. In this way, my personal practice becomes a source of collective strength and motivation.
Embracing the Process
It’s important to remember that the journey of doing what we don’t want to do is a process, not a destination. There will be days when resistance wins, and that’s okay. What matters is our willingness to begin again, to return to our practice with renewed intention. Each moment offers a fresh opportunity to choose growth over comfort, and with each choice, we move closer to the best version of ourselves.
So, the next time you find yourself resisting that early morning yoga practice or dreading the thought of a meditation session, take a deep breath and remind yourself of the power that lies in doing what you don’t want to do. Embrace the discomfort, knowing that it’s a signpost on the path to greater strength, clarity, and peace.
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