A Yogi's Guide to Hard Times

Life can often feel quite difficult. The external world can feel overwhelming. Suffering is palpable. We may feel unsure of what will come next, and perhaps unsettled or anxious because of this uncertainty. In these moments it can be difficult to know how to act and how to be in the world. For this reason, here we will offer some guidelines and ways of being during difficult times. 

Be Kind
The first is a reminder to be kind. Studies have shown that kindness is contagious. If we ourselves are kind to those we come into contact with, those people are more likely to be kind to the people they interact with. Kindness can spread. A single act of kindness cultivates not only our own connection with others, but it helps make the world a kinder place. 

Be Truthful
When we speak in ways that are untrue, it creates tension. We have to uphold an image of reality that is not true. We have to remember how we acted in each situation, to whom we have spoken to and what we have said. That which is untrue becomes a burden we have to carry. This is a burden laden with stress. If we simply speak the truth, we are immediately freed of this burden. While it can take courage to be truthful, it will make for a much lighter way of being in the world. We are then aligned with the world as it is, rather than the world we are making in our minds. 

Be of Service
Topics such as Karma Yoga discuss ideas of acting in the world without being selfish. Karma Yoga suggests that we must act in the world. Since we are here, we should learn to act skillfully. What does skillful action mean? It means acting for others and not for egoic, selfish means.

In today's world, we can also prioritize generosity. While we make sure our own needs are taken care of, we can also consider how much we truly need for ourselves and make an effort to help others and be of service. 

Regulate Your Nervous System
When the external world is tense and anxious, it's important to take care of your nervous system. Even if the world seems like a stressful or anxious place, you can cultivate steadiness and even relaxation. To do so, practice Even Count breathing each morning, breathing in for 4 and out for 4. Make the breath smooth and even. Practice this simple breathing exercises for a few minutes each day. 

Other practices can include postures like Shavasana, Half Tortoise or Wind Removing which all can be done by taking deep abdominal breaths to help the body relax. 

Practice Discernment
Meditation and yoga practices often focus on sharpening the mind. This is the act of cultivating discernment. This means we get better at seeing the world as it truly is. We get better at discerning what is useful knowledge and what is not. Not everything we hear is true or useful. A yogi's mind aims to understand the difference between the real and unreal, what is true and what is untrue. A yogi aims to seek what is true, real and useful in the world.