Yoga for the Creative Soul by Erin Byron

Author:Erin Byron
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: yoga;yoga books;yoga book;book on yoga;yoga for the soul;creative soul;yoga for expression;yoga for creativity;creativity;expression;erin byron;erin byron ma;CVR05042017
Publisher: Llewellyn Worldwide, LTD.
Published: 2017-11-01T14:33:55+00:00

Exercise: Connect to Nonverbal Wisdom

Even though it can be tricky to turn off the thinking mind, nay-sayers, and internal analysis, this practice gives you the chance to do all of that. Return to this exercise time and again to free yourself.

Step 1: Commit to not listening to your mind. No “Where should I draw this object? … What am I trying to convey? … Is this graceful enough? …” This exercise is directing you to a pure experience through the body, beyond the thinking mind.

Step 2: Select a nonverbal modality such as visual art, dance, or music. Place your dominant hand in the small of your back and allow your nondominant hand to play in the realm you have selected. If you are moving, be sure to lead with the nondominant side of your body. Do your best to stay connected to how you feel throughout the process.

Step 3: As you continue to create from this nondominant and hopefully nonverbal space, you may notice your mind trying to “help” by offering suggestions, feedback, insights, and other commentary. You may not be able to stop it from doing so; however, you do not need to listen to it. Disregard the words in your mind and continue creating from your body sense. You may be surprised by what is stored beyond the realm of language within you.

Any time you notice your thoughts or programming getting in the way of your creative process, let your nonverbal wisdom shine through. A simple path to quelling the nay-saying thinking mind is to lead creation from your nondominant hand.

Pranayama

Breathing, the fourth limb of the eightfold path, is about the vital force that is carried on the breath (prana). By focusing on, controlling, or elongating the inhales (puraka), exhales (rechaka), and pauses between each (kumbhaka and sunyaka), we gain mastery over our own vital force. The breath is the bridge between mind and body. When you breathe deeply, your nervous system responds parasympathetically—in other words, you relax. Besides, a relaxed nervous system translates through the emotions and mind, soothing you and slowing your thoughts. In this relaxed state, we are better able to shift perspectives, gain insights, and receive creative inspiration. Although it is beyond the scope of this book, I highly recommend you seek out research on the relationship between relaxation and mental/emotional processes. For now, you can take my word for it. Feel welcome to practice the following exercise, or variation thereof, before settling into any creative endeavor.

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