The great discourse......and re-frame

​​In the Yoga Sutra 2.33, Patanjali says, "When negative thoughts present themselves, cultivate and think the opposite thoughts with feeling." "The power of discourse and re-framing has deeply inspired me. This quote has resonated in my mind lately, reminding me of the positive impact we can create through our words."



As a current yoga therapist intern at MUIH, I've seen firsthand how transformative it can be to re-frame our negative thoughts and beliefs. It's not about denying reality or pretending everything is sunshine and rainbows. Instead, it's about acknowledging our challenges and focusing on the opportunities for growth and learning.

As a member of Gen X, I've always appreciated the power of wit and sarcasm. It is almost effortless to deliver that sarcasm on demand more instant than ramen noodles in a cup. But I've also learned these coping mechanisms can only take us so far.  To truly grow and evolve as individuals and as a society, we need to be willing to engage in meaningful dialogue and discourse.

Of course, this is easier said than done. It's too easy to get bogged down in negativity or fall into a false positivity trap. ( I always think of the Legos song "Everything Is Awesome" regarding false positivity) But with practice and intention, we can learn to balance these two extremes.

Whether conversing with a Yoga Therapy client or engaging in everyday discussions, we can adopt a receptive attitude and a desire to enrich our understanding. By altering our negative thoughts and attitudes, we can foster a spirit of curiosity and appreciation toward the world and those in it.

We can create shared wisdom and deeper connections by embracing the power of re-framing and discourse. Let's see where it takes us.

Some actions steps to consider:

Mindfulness and positive thinking are important. However, sometimes, we may struggle to maintain a positive mindset when faced with challenging situations. Some work in re-framing through yoga therapy comes in.

Re-framing is changing how we perceive a situation by shifting our focus from negative to positive. It is a powerful tool that can help us in our personal and professional lives by allowing us to see things more positively. Here are some actionable Yoga practices you can incorporate into your routine to work on re-framing more positively:

1. Gratitude Practice

Start a gratitude practice. Take a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for in your life. You can be thankful for anything, from the roof over your head to the people who support you. By focusing on the positive aspects of our lives, we can shift our mindset from one of lack to one of abundance.

2. Breathwork

Breathwork is a powerful tool for calming the mind and reducing stress. When we perceive discourse to be conflict, it can be received as stress in our body, and our breath becomes shallow and rapid, which can lead to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. Practicing deep, diaphragmatic breathing can slow down our heart rate and calm our nervous system. Simple breathing practices help us to regulate challenging situations with a clear and calm mind.

3. Meditation

Meditation is another powerful tool for re-framing our thoughts and shifting our mindset. We can cultivate a sense of inner peace and calm by taking a few minutes each day to sit in silence and focus on our breath. Guided meditation can help us to approach challenging situations with a more positive and open mindset.

4. Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are statements we repeat to reinforce positive beliefs and attitudes. By repeating positive affirmations regularly, we can reprogram our subconscious mind to focus on the positive aspects of our lives. Short practices with aphorisms can help us approach challenging situations with a more optimistic mindset.

5. Yoga Asana

Yoga asana is a physical practice that can help us to release tension and stress from our bodies. When stressed or overwhelmed, our bodies tend to contract and tighten up. Practicing yoga asana can release this tension and create space in our bodies and minds. A yoga class can help us to approach challenging situations with a more open and relaxed mindset. Have you ever left a yoga class feeling better than when you came in?

In addition to these practices, it is essential to honor good discourse and not see it purely as conflict. When we actively approach conversations with an open mind and a willingness to listen to different perspectives, we create an environment of mutual respect and understanding. This can help us to build stronger relationships and foster a sense of community.

By incorporating practices such as gratitude, breathwork, meditation, positive affirmations, and yoga asana into our daily routines, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace and calm that will serve us well in all areas of our lives. Honoring reasonable discourse can build stronger relationships and create a more positive and supportive community.


stay well, stay connected, remain authentic-
​-Valerie

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