Sometimes our Practice is about the Poses, but often it is about so much more

According to Wikipedia, "Benjamin Franklin was an American polymath: a writer, scientist, inventor, statesman, diplomat, printer, publisher and political philosopher."

It is said that Benjamin Franklin had a list of 13 Virtues that he tried to live by, he felt that by living by these virtues, he would achieve moral perfection. These virtues included things like Temperance, Silence, Order, Resolution and Humility. It is said that he almost didn't include humility, but it was at some point added to the list.

By practicing humility, a person can put their accomplishments into perspective. They believe that they are no better than others. Humility can be characterized by gratitude and the freedom from arrogance and judgement. A humble person can acknowledge their mistakes and is aware of their limitations.

This got me to thinking about how we can explore Humility from our yoga mat.

If we explore our practice through the lens of humility, we can continue to explore our practice, our body and our breath with an open mind, realizing that our practice is an every evolving process. Which leads to one of my favourite new phrases, "Yoga Practice not Yoga Perfect". Humility allows us to let go of any expectations or judgements we may have about ourselves, or others, and allows us to trust the process. This lens can allow us to be receptive to change and open to new ideas.

The story goes that at the end of his life, when Franklin was on his death bed, he was rumoured to say that of all his virtues, he wished that he had obtained humility, which in itself, found him humble in that moment. I'm not sure if that is true, but it makes a nice ending to the story.

Let me know how you connect with humility in your practice this month, and I hope to see you on the mat!

Kathy