Even-Heartedness: September 2023

The practice of even-heartedness feels to me like the yogic practice of balancing poses. In such poses, we work toward “effortless effort” or not pushing and pulling our bodies every which way and instead, allowing a state of equilibrium to wash over us through our breath and focus.

One of the things I love about yoga is how what we learn can translate out of our bodies and into our lives and relationships with others. Energetically, we can create a sense of push and pull through our expectations and resistance. And if we have pattern of resistance (me!) in any given relationship, it’s hard not to topple over … emotionally speaking.

Of course, yoga is not the only activity that requires “effortless effort.” Playing music, riding a bike, going on a run, painting a picture. Most activities require some kind of release to achieve progression.

Could you use a little even-heartedness in your life? What areas in your life are you pushing and pulling to the point of exhaustion or imbalance? We invite you to dig deeper with this guided meditation by Ryan: Evenheartedness as a Felt Experience.

In search of balance, 

Lisa