Don't believe everything you believe...

I had an interesting experience yesterday, teaching a group of senior ladies in a free taster session of yoga.  I happened to mention that it is thought that yoga may have been practiced for as long as 5000 years and therefore there must be something beneficial in it!  I was quickly shot down with a retort that just because something is an old tradition it does not mean it is good or worthwhile.  I was a little taken aback but thought perhaps the lady had a point, she did cite astrology as an example and said that has been around for centuries but is a 'load of rubbish' - I decided not to get into a discussion about that.....I like to keep an open mind about most subjects.

The real reason I know that yoga is beneficial in so many ways because I have experienced it for myself - the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional benefits.  I have also witnessed the benefits in others whilst teaching them, not just perceived benefits but measurable ones like improved medical results, improved range of mobility in joints etc.  So this is the crux of the matter, don't just believe what people tell you, don't just believe what you read or watch.  But EXPERIENCE for yourself and then you will truly know.  If you don't believe in the existence of chakras and nadis and astral bodies but you go to a yoga class and feel great afterwards - then that maybe all you need.  I do try to keep an open mind and try not to have hard and fast rules about what I believe in, after all everything is changing and flowing and evolving in every moment and this includes our thoughts and opinions.......so thanks to that lady for making me think!

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