In a Moment - Issue 10

The transition from Summer into Fall is palpable right now. From the cooler mornings with less humidity to the lack of parking spots in my neighborhood with the return of neighbors from Upstate excursions and Long Island beach vacations. The air is thick with the energy of transition. And with transition, the question of balance also arises. I find the discussion of balance to be one that permeates all my relationships — work, yoga & teaching, friendships. It seems that I am often in pursuit of that elusive achievement of “balance.” When all the pieces fit together just right — when there is a enough time for work, for creative pursuits, for teaching, for home, for relationships.

One challenge that arises with balance is compromise. Balance does not mean that there is perfection in all of the pieces. It requires negotiation. It requires a dance of shifting priorities. It requires compassion for yourself and the recognition that you’re doing the best you can each day and sometimes you might not get it right (note: best does not equal perfect). Much like the body will sway when standing on one foot, balance is not static, but something that requires shifts — sometimes subtle and sometimes big changes.

And what helps with me with navigating the dance of balance? Presence. A steady reminder to be with where I am in this moment. To be with my breath. To notice the sunlight through the window. To feel what it feels like to be in my body. This practice of presence helps me tap into what might need to be shifted or compromised as I move through balance.

Being present is a constant practice and I found that it can be helpful for me to have a reminder. Crystals are a big part of my personal practice and one reason is they are physical things. Things you can hold in your hand or place on a shelf. Things that can be a physical reminder of what you’re cultivating, drawing in, protecting from. I have crystals placed throughout my home to serve as those gentle reminders to come back to myself. To be present.

Is there a physical item (a candle, a toy, a favorite pen, a small plant) that you can anoint with a purpose this week?

A gentle way to remind yourself to be present and to be kind as you move through your own experience of balance.