Finding Balance with Yoga and Meditation

Finding Balance with Yoga and Meditation
by Dr. Nadia

“…[E]veryone is a house with four rooms, a physical, a mental, an emotional and a spiritual.
Most of us tend to live in one room most of the time but, unless we go into every room every day, even if only to keep it aired, we are not a complete person.”

–Rumer Godden, A House with Four Rooms

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I first heard this quote during my yoga teacher training when I was studying yoga philosophy. The simplicity and truth of this metaphor really resonated with me.

We are complex, multidimensional beings with various aspects of our personality that make us unique and beautiful. All of our facets need equal attention and what better description than a house with four rooms?

And, what happens in house if we keep one window or door open and close the rest? Or if we just visit one room and not the others?

We see imbalance, more of one aspect of our personality, whether it be too aggressive, too anxious, too blasé, or too indulgent. True balance of our whole self, strengths and weaknesses, keeps us centered.

Do the teachings of Yoga and/or meditation conflict with other religions?

What if you already ascribe to a certain religion or life philosophy? Does yoga conflict with those beliefs?

Nope, no conflict!

In fact, yoga and meditation are great supplementals to add to your current beliefs. Though we often think of yoga as the physical poses, or asanas, but it is actually a lifestyle. Its roots trace back to Eastern philosophies but its teachings transcend religious beliefs.

Anyone can be a yogi, as a person that lives life in a peaceful and nonviolent way in the yogi tradition. As with religion, love, balance, nonviolence, peace and moderation are encouraged. Yoga and meditation gives  structure and allows for affirmations that can enhance your spiritual side. Along with cultivating a  positive outlook, it give mind and body centering that you can take with you on and off the yoga mat.

To understand the world around us,  look inward first and then take that knowledge out.

Read my gentle meditation on thought.

Incorporating Yoga and Meditation to Daily Life

Yoga and meditation can mean different things to different people.

For me, yoga and meditation provide the stillness and quiet time to focus on my energy and to center myself from the noise and bustle of the day. It gives me clarity. Along without the peace it brings, there are so many benefits and you can read more about the benefits of meditation.

Meditation can seem daunting, but really it is just a few minutes of focus and reflection. It can be done anywhere, while in bed, walking, sitting down, etc. Try various ways and see what works for you.

Here are some ways to make meditation a part of your life and ways to make a space for meditation in your home.

Yoga and Meditation for Balance Within

To those who may think that yoga or meditation isn’t for them, I would recommend giving it a go to see what effect it can have on you. At minimum, it will provide physical strength and flexibility, relieving tension in the body. And along the way, you may discover yoga to be more than just movements and meditation more than just sitting down.

Read more on how to start a mindful meditation practice.

It can serve as “you time”, enlightening and reflective. It can allow you can learn about yourself, freeing yourself from both physical and mental constraint. Read more on my gentle meditation for making space for self compassion  for some gentle reminders and a guide to help you get started on your meditation practice.

The essence of yoga and mindful meditation is that is transformative. It can be anything you want it to be depending on what you make of your practice and of your life. It is a paradox. It is containment and liberation depending on your state of being, on you.

Have you tried yoga and meditation? Has it made a difference in your life? Please share your experiences. Would love to hear more.

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