To Return
To return. To begin again. A closing of one chapter, a tying up of loose ends in order to create space for something new. A new phase, a new adventure, a new sense of purpose. But between these two energies is the necessary hibernation phase of rest, reflection and integration. To fully digest all that has been, in order to absorb the lessons, learning and wisdom that will carry you through what is to come. Rest in itself provides an opportunity to return back to ourselves. Providing a space in time to step away from external opinion and perspective and instead incubate internal shifts that return us to our truth, that re-align the way we act and speak with what our true values are. Returning to what is meaningful and rich by our own metrics and definitions knowing this does not have to look the same for everyone which in turn allows compassion and mutual respect for others.
To return is to be reminded of our own intention. How we want to show up in the world for ourselves and for those around us.
These reflections come from being in this hibernation phase of rest myself. Time needed after returning home physically, back to the UK after four months spent in Mother India. Yet it is the four months away with daily yoga practice that really taught me what it means to return home to myself. To my breath, to my mind, to my body. To befriend who I am, just as I am without the need to change to fit in or to meet the perceived expectation of other people.
India taught me so much. In ways I did not expect. It showed me lots of things that I realise I do not believe in or agree with which at the time felt unsettling but with allowing these lessons to simmer I understood that by knowing what it is we don’t want it guides us with more gusto, speed and clarity to what it is that really lights us up. To what it is that really sets our soul on fire and aligns with our intention for showing up.
I am grateful to have met such strong, inspiring, beautiful souls during my time in India who I now get to call friends. They showed me not to be afraid of asking for help, not to be ashamed of my dreams for the life I want to create and my vision for the future. They showed me that I am a strong woman too! Friendship and community are often overlooked in the journey of returning home to ourselves yet it was the unconditional love and acceptance I felt from my friends that showed me how to love and accept myself too.
Returning home required space. Space away from external distraction. Space to reconnect to mind, body and breathe through yoga. Space within a supportive community.
It is these pillars that have inspired me to create the Sunday Sessions. A space for you to enjoy a moment of stillness; to pause and return home to yourself amidst our increasingly busy lives through the guided practice of yoga asana (movement), pranayama (breathe control) and yoga Nidra (deep rest). A 75 minute community yoga class right on your doorstep at Sunnyside Barn in East Grinstead, Sundays 10am-11:15am.
Join me as the Sunday Sessions begin on Sunday March 16th. Book your space here.
