How We Show Up on the Mat: The Spiritual Gifts of a Yoga Practice
- Francia Groman
- Aug 15
- 4 min read
Yoga is frequently praised—and, regrettably, often recognized solely—for its physical advantages: flexibility, strength, balance, and vitality. However, these represent just one aspect of the many benefits yoga provides. Many of us have experienced deeper gifts of yoga, those that unfold quietly, beneath the surface, every time we step onto our mats. These benefits often appear unexpectedly and may go unnoticed until we start to observe the transformations in our own lives.
Our daily asana practice becomes a mirror. The way we approach a challenging pose, the thoughts that arise when we wobble or fall, the patience (or impatience) we bring to each breath—these are not just moments on the mat. They’re glimpses into our deeper selves and the ways we move through the world.
When we practice regularly, we start to notice patterns:
Am I quick to judge myself for not being “enough”?
Do I push through discomfort, or do I listen and honor my limits?
Can I find moments of stillness and gratitude, even when things don’t go as planned?
Yoga invites us to be present with whatever arises. It encourages us to meet ourselves with compassion, curiosity, and honesty. Over time, this gentle self-study—what yogis call svadhyaya—helps us build a more loving relationship with ourselves. We learn that our worth isn’t tied to how “advanced” our poses are, but to the intention and presence we bring to each practice.
Before teaching, I was—and continue to be—primarily a yoga student. I know first hand how some days can feel burdensome, stiff, noisy, and unsettling, making us reluctant to step onto our mats. There are mornings when I stand at the top of my mat, hands in prayer, feeling tired, impatient, and uninspired willing myself to begin. Many days, my practice feels amazing; most days, it simply feels like a job well done; but occasionally, it can feel downright awful. Nevertheless, one thing is for certain: it’s always worthwhile.
Each time I choose to remain consistent, I’m establishing a long-term pattern that has the capacity help me become the best version of myself. The truth is, rolling out your mat, opening the Zoom link, or driving to the studio is often the most challenging part of the practice. But once we're there, moivng, breathing and being, we never regret it.
One of my favorite teachings from the Yoga Sutras speaks directly to this journey of transformation:
“Practice becomes firmly grounded when well attended to for a long time, without break and in all earnestness.”— Yoga Sutra 1.14
This sutra reminds us that true spiritual growth doesn’t come from a single breakthrough moment, but from the steady, heartfelt commitment to show up again and again. This means that it's our duty to roll out our mats on days when we feel inspired, just as much as on days we feel distracted, each time we return is an act of devotion to ourselves. Maybe it’s pausing for a few mindful breaths when life feels overwhelming, or gently bringing our attention back when our mind wanders. These small, consistent efforts are what create lasting change and a lifelong practice.
This awareness doesn’t end when we step off the mat. The patience, acceptance, and resilience we cultivate during our practice begins to ripple out into our daily lives. We start to notice how we react in stressful situations, how we treat others, and how we talk to ourselves. Each practice is an opportunity to align our actions with our values, both on and off the mat.
So the next time you unroll your mat, take a moment to notice how you’re arriving—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. What are you carrying with you? What are you ready to let go of? Yoga is not about perfection; it’s about presence, growth, and returning to yourself again and again.
Invitation
How has your practice reflected your life lately? I’d love to hear your stories, insights, or questions—feel free to comment or share in class.
Practice With Me
If you’re feeling inspired to begin, or deepen your practice or simply want to reconnect, I warmly invite you to join me for a class—online or in person. Here’s my current schedule:
Mon: Yogic Breath & Meditation - 8:30am
Mon: Restorative Yoga & Sound - 7:30pm
Wed: Ashtanga Foundations - 8:30am
Sat: Ashtanga Foundations - 7:30am
Sun: Gentle Vinyasa - 8:30am
Wed: Black Rock (Germantown) - 12pm
Thu: IM=X Pilates (Gaithersburg) - 11:30am
Fri: IM=X Pilates (Gaithersburg) - 10:30am
Sat: Bretton Woods (Germantown)-9:00am
Sun: Bretton Woods (Germantown)-9:00am
On-Demand Library
If you can’t make it live on zoom or live too far to come in person, I invite you to explore our growing library of 800+ recorded classes—organized by style, focus, and level—so you can practice anytime, anywhere. There's always a free channel of classes available for all! Browse the online class library
All levels are welcome—whether you’re brand new or a lifelong yogi. You can find more details, class passes, and registration info on my website: www.ahimsawellnessyoga.com
I look forward to practicing with you and continuing this journey together.
With gratitude,
Francia 💖🙏
UPCOMING RETREATS with Natasha!
Yoga & Hike Sedona Retreat | September 25th to 29th
Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking mountain views that surround this beautiful, mystical and spirited retreat. Sedona, Arizona is renowned for its stunning red rock formations, powerful vortex sites, and rejuvenating atmosphere. This 4-night/5-day Sedona Retreat balances outdoor adventure, spiritual exploration, wellness activities, and time to simply soak in the natural beauty of this unique destination.
Stand Up Paddle board with Manatees Retreat April 16th to 20th
This retreat is a magical experience filled with adventure, sun, fun and tons of laughter!!!!
Experience the thrill of paddle boarding or canoeing crystal clear waters alongside manatees. These gentle giants will swim right up next to you! Surrounded by lush foliage, blue skies and sunshine, your paddle experience will be a magical dream. Waterfront accommodations will give you easy access to these peaceful creatures.
Great blog!
Awesome blog
💖🙏💖