For the past couple of weeks, I’ve focused my classes on finding softness during the practice. And since we all know that what you practice on your mat inevitably translates to life off your mat, I thought I’d share it with you. Whether you practice yoga or not, I’m certain this will inspire you to find some softness!

For those that practice yoga, you know the feeling of when you are in a pose that feels challenging that day, and the instructor keeps talking through it while you are sweating and thinking how is this supposed to relax me? AND when will he/she stop talking so I can release out of this already?!

These are the EXACT moments when you should welcome softness. Finding softness in your jaw, neck, or shoulders so you can deepen the pose or maintain it feels so good. It feels good while you are in the pose, physically, but also mentally because you have shifted your mindset. Yay!

Softness, essentially, is a way to release tension. Softness is a word that brings images of clouds, cotton, a pillow, or maybe a bunny to mind. Right?

If you don’t practice yoga, it’s ok (well not really but that’s another story) you can still practice softness. You know the feeling when you wake up late, or show up to work with a to-do list bigger than your house? Or even when you have an argument with someone because they just aren’t listening? Or maybe when you have been on the phone for 40 minutes trying to get your cable fixed? (ha! you know that one) Where do you feel that tension? Where can softness play a role in helping you release tension so your physical body doesn’t feel the pain of your emotional body?

On your mat:

  • When you are in Virabhadrasana 2 (Warrior 2), bring softness to your shoulders
  • When you are in Janu Sirsasana, bring softness to your neck
  • When you are in Runner’s Lunge, bring softness to your jaw
  • When you are in Supta Baddha Konasona, bring softness to your belly
  • When you are in Ardha Kapotasana (Half Pigeon), bring softness to your hips
  • When you are in Tadasana, bring softness to your ribs

Off the mat:

  • When you are irritated, bring softness to your shoulders.
  • When you are angry, bring softness to your jaw.
  • When you are frustrated, bring softness to your brows.
  • When you are struggling, bring softness to your heart.
  • When someone else makes a mistake, bring softness to your facial expression.

SOFT – easy to mould, cut, compress, or fold; not hard or firm to the touch

SOFT – having a pleasing quality involving a subtle effect or contrast rather than sharp definition.

Softness is like fabric softener in your towel.

Now go practice some softness you softy!

Finding Softness