This week I sat down for a friendly chat with Ganga and she asked me, what do you want for yourself? It took me a few moments to understand what I want or more precisely need, and I confidently answered her persistence! ...As I started explaining myself I realized that what I really need is self-compassion and I quickly corrected myself. It's not contradictory to want both but they sometimes feel contradictory to each other. So I went on a short journey of research to understand the relationship between the two and how I can balance them. Each of these virtues has tremendous power on its own, but when cultivated together, they pave the way for a balanced and fulfilling life. This balance is especially prominent in the yoga world, where the teachings emphasize both the drive for perseverance and the need for self-compassion.
Persistence: The Flame of Determination
Dictionary Definition: Persistence is the quality that allows someone to continue doing something or trying to do something even though it is difficult or opposed by other people.
In yoga, persistence is akin to the unwavering dedication to one's practice. It's the commitment to rise with the sun for early morning asanas or the discipline to meditate daily, even when the mind is restless. The Yoga Sutras, penned by the sage Patanjali, emphasize the importance of regular practice (Abhyasa) as a means to attain mastery and inner peace.
Self-Compassion: The Embrace of Self-Love
Dictionary Definition: Self-compassion involves being warm and understanding toward ourselves when we suffer, fail, or feel inadequate, rather than ignoring our pain or punishing ourselves with self-criticism.
In the yogic philosophy, self-compassion aligns closely with "Ahimsa" or non-violence. Beyond just the physical realm, Ahimsa teaches non-harm in thoughts and emotions, especially towards oneself. It's the gentle voice that says, "It's okay to rest," or "You're doing your best," even when we falter in our practice or face challenges in life.
In the journey of personal growth and self-discovery, persistence acts as the propelling force, pushing us to transcend our limits and strive for excellence. It's the fire that ignites our passions and keeps us moving forward, even in the face of adversity. On the other hand, self-compassion is the gentle hand that soothes, nurtures, and heals. It reminds us of our inherent worth, ensuring that in our pursuit of goals, we don't lose sight of our well-being.
Together, persistence and self-compassion form a harmonious duo. While persistence ensures we don't stagnate, self-compassion ensures we don't burn out. One pushes us to dream big, and the other ensures we cherish the journey as much as the destination. In the dance of life, these virtues move in tandem, each complementing the other, ensuring that our journey is both purposeful and nurturing. In essence, to truly thrive, one must learn the art of being tenaciously gentle and gently tenacious. In conclusion, while persistence drives us forward, self-compassion ensures we don't burn out along the way. In the world of yoga, as in life, it's this delicate balance that leads to holistic growth, inner peace, and a journey filled with purpose and joy.
Harmonizing Persistence and Self-Compassion: A Yogic Guide
Mindful Practice: Approach your yoga practice with awareness. Recognize when you're pushing yourself too hard and when you might benefit from a gentler approach.
Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward, no matter how tiny, is progress. Celebrate your achievements, and remember that growth is a journey, not a destination.
Practice Loving-Kindness Meditation: Dedicate time to send love and positive energy to yourself. This meditation nurtures self-love and reinforces the importance of self-compassion.
Set Realistic Goals: Whether in yoga or life, set achievable goals. This balance ensures you're challenging yourself while also being kind to yourself.
Journaling: Document your journey. Writing can offer insights into your patterns, helping you strike a balance between persistence and self-compassion.
Educate Yourself: Dive into the Yoga Sutras or other spiritual texts. Understanding the underlying philosophy can offer deeper insights into the dance between persistence and self-compassion.
