What I am Learning About Yoga and Myself

Lotus Care KC Yoga Therapy and Wellness is host to the 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training Program of the Therapeutic Yoga Institute. In this blog post, we are thrilled to introduce an essay by Lauren Beisel, a passionate student who recently started her teacher training program. In her essay, Lauren beautifully articulates her discovery that yoga transcends the physical practice of postures (asanas) and encompasses a holistic way of life that integrates mental, spiritual, and physical aspects. Through her reflections, Lauren explores the ethical principles and internal practices that guide us toward a balanced and fulfilling existence. Her journey, marked by self-discovery and personal growth, serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of yoga. Join us in reading Lauren's insightful essay and embark on a path of deeper understanding and harmony within yourself.


What I am learning about Yoga and Myself
By Lauren Beisel

Something that I learned this weekend is that yoga is far more than postures (asanas). It is a way of life that combines mental and spiritual to the physical aspect. This weekend we began learning about the 8 limbs of yoga. The first two limbs, the Yamas and Niyamas, are the foundational ethical principles, that give us the tools to live a full, balanced life. Yamas are external ethical principals: ahimsa (non-harming), satya (truthfulness), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (moderation), and aparigraha (generosity). Niyamas are the internal practices: Saucha (purity), santosha (contentment), tapas (austerity), swadyaya (self-study), and iswara-pranidhana (surrender). These principles provide a framework for leading a balanced and fulfilling life. We began discussing and practicing the asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathwork).

At the heart of this journey lies the first yoga sutra, 'now the inquiry of yoga', which urges us to be fully in the present moment and dive deep into ourselves to discover what our bodies truly need. Through this experience, we come to a place of understanding within ourselves and can begin to create harmony with our body, mind, and spirit.
Reflecting on my experiences, I've realized that I've only just embarked upon this journey of self-discovery. Through this process, I've recognized my tendency to overthink and have learned the importance of surrendering to the present moment. I am looking forward to incorporating all these aspects into my life and witnessing the changes that occur physically and mentally. Feeling the changes in my physical body will assist me in facilitating others in the practice of yoga. I've come to recognize the importance of creating or finding a supportive space that fosters learning, contemplation, and personal development. Additionally, I've come to appreciate the significance of cultivating supportive relationships that respect boundaries and encourage aspirations.

I am deeply grateful for the guidance and encouragement the program facilitators provide, whose wisdom continues to illuminate my path as I navigate these pivotal aspects of my life. This journey will be challenging (in a good way) while I learn to incorporate all aspects of yoga into my life.