Recently in yoga class, the teacher offered a unique perspective.  As we moved through each pose, she reminded us that we are self-sufficient, and to tell ourselves: “I am powerful; I am capable.”  It offered a new perspective, because we all hear our yoga teacher tell us to honor the state of our bodies in its present moment, even if it is not the most advanced expression of the pose.  However, we rarely hear the next layer of that – to find strength in today’s expression of the pose, even on our weakest feeling days.  Even if we are holding a modified, so-called-beginner version of a pose, are we valuing our own internal power and control?  Are we celebrating the strength and physical movement that we currently have?  And are we fully utilizing the power we have within, even if we are feeling sick or low energy that day?

I came into that Sunday morning class very tired and worn down, and in those moments I usually back off or check out during an intense pose.  But, on this day, a shift occurred by repeating to myself throughout the class “I am powerful.  I am capable.  I am self-sufficient.”  I held each pose stronger, but also more reflective.  And I didn’t pity myself as I can tend to do.  I was aware of my limitations and honored that it was still a pretty awesome state of being!

No matter your physical limitations or current mental state, you are strong and capable, and able to channel the best versions of yourself on any given day, whether in yoga class, or more importantly, in life.