Start the Conversation

​I love the conversations I am hearing and witnessing. At work, on social media, on TV, you name it. It’s happening. People all around me are discussing difficult topics of racism, equal rights, representation, harassment, gun laws, politics, and global issues. Once taboo topics of conversation are now shared among friends, family, co-workers, and most importantly with those of opposing beliefs. 
 
Every day when I walk into class to teach I learn from the diversity of my students. Even without verbal conversation, I see my students through their practice, their movement, their breath. Together we navigate relative forms of challenge, resistance, and discomfort to walk away with something valuable; something learned. 
 
The root word “Asana,” is often considered a yoga posture especially in Western Yoga. Therefore, it is easy to mistake the practice for being about nailing the perfect yoga pose. But, the traditional translation is defined as “comfortable seat.” I guarantee though, that if you sat in any asana for an extended period of time you will probably experience some sort of resistance and discomfort. We oftentimes view those sensations as a bad thing and do our very best to avoid them. However, resistance gives us feedback much like conversations that welcome diverse opinions. Just like in the practice, it’s not about what is "right" vs "wrong," that is not the point. It is about starting a conversation in order to listen, understand, and being open to each lesson along the way. Perhaps with these new and exciting conversations happening in the world we can turn discomfort into tolerance, listening, and understanding.