Reclaiming the word Discipline
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Discipline.
That word probably sparks a reaction in your gut. You might be taken back to the 10 or 16 year old you. You might think of goals met because you enforced it.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines discipline as "control gained by enforcing obedience or order; orderly prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior; self-control." The second definition is "punishment."
Commitment
Commitment is defined as a promise to do or give something or an agreement or pledge to do something in the future.
This is a word I've been pondering in my own life. For almost 10 months I've had the commitment to get up and practice my morning yoga, pranayama and meditation practice. Not all mornings were 35 minutes (my current goal) but at least 10 minutes of tuning in before I go out into the world.
At my last yoga teacher training I was able to do a yoga pose I never imagined I could do. I looked at the picture and thought haha yeah right before I even knew how to get into the pose. How often do we do that in our lives. Say to ourselves no way that goal isn't for me and cast doubt on ourselves before we even try?
You know what happened after I was told how to do it? I was able to get into it. Of course still room for improvement but I got my body into the shape. See a photo on my show notes for the pose.
This pose brought me back to the word discipline. My morning practice helped me get there. Me getting up between 6-6:30am from a nice cozy bed to do my practice, to take care of me. Not only have I been exploring new shapes like this but I'm able to touch my toes in a seated forward bend. Not every yoga teacher is naturally flexible. But this took consistent action, consistent practice and commitment to show up on my mat.
That's why for myself I'm reclaiming the word and examining what other areas could I have more discipline in so I achieve my goals? Maybe this is something you want to examine in your own life.
Where could I a little discipline and consistency help you reach your goals?
- Sleep
- Workouts
- Nutrition
- Daily Walks
- Reading
- Social media consumption
- Netflix or tv viewing
Look at what areas you're holding yourself back in. Where is time to have structure so you can flow? Structure doesn't mean restriction. If a river didn't have rocks/dirt/soil containing it, it would flow all over and lose it's power.
It's the same with us we might have the power but are lacking the discipline to reach your goal. The more you feel protected and have the container the wilder and more open you can become knowing your discipline has your back.
Weekly Challenge
Examine where you need to add more discipline to help you achieve your goals.
Wondering what Ayurvedic Habits you want to start doing?
Divine Body Wisdom is out for preorder right now.
Andrea Claassen is an Ayurvedic Wellness Counselor, RYT 500 hour yoga teacher and Wild Woman Circle leader who has been in the wellness space since 2007. Her mission is to help people slow down, tune in, and connect with themselves again. Her favorite place to be is wandering through the woods with her family. Connect with Andrea on her website at www.andreaclaassen.com or on IG @seasonallivingmamas
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