Yoga for Creatives 3 – Pratyahara

Pratyahara means withdrawing from the senses and to draw inward.  In this day and age, it is extremely challenging to focus inward.  We are constantly inundated with so many external distractions, especially by our phones and social media.  So often we find ourselves comparing ourselves to others and we start to feel less then.  Like we are not enough and that the person on the other side of the screen has it all.  When the mind starts to wander to this place, that is when we really need to practice pratyahara- aka drawing inward.

It’s similar to walking into a room and turning off the lights.  Taking away sight, sound, smell, touch, and just being with ourselves.  You don’t have to lock yourself in a room to practice pratyahara, but it can sure help to shut down a few of your senses for just a little bit each day.  Maybe it’s in the morning.  Instead of scrolling on your phone, you give yourself ten minutes with your eyes closed and just breathing.  Maybe it’s in your car.  Instead of listening to the radio, just be in silence.

Pratyahara is one of the limbs of yoga philosophy because it allows us to take a moment to see inside and see ourselves.  And at first, that can sound scary, but many philosophies state that in all of us, we have more strength, courage, and peace then we realize.  So drawing inward and giving ourselves some time to tap into that is essential if we want to live a happier lives.

I think one of the best ways to practice pratyahara is through yoga, which is why I am theming this months Yoga for Creatives Entrepreneurs around it.

Yoga for Creatives Entrepreneurs is a FREE monthly meet up yoga class taught by yours truly.  I have been teaching yoga for 8 years and love connecting with others through this practice.  Class will be held  11/20 7pm.  I’ll be hosting this in my photography studio at 77 13th ave NE.  It will be an all levels vinyasa style flow by candlelight.  Attending the class is free, but this time, I am encouraging all attendees to bring something to donate to the Simpson Housing Service.  They provide shelter to those in need and are currently accepting anything new with the list below (in their package- nothing used), and I’ll drop off all of our items together.

• Toothpaste
• Toothbrushes
• Razors
• Shaving cream
• Foot powder
• Deodorant
• Disinfectant spray for shoes & feet
• Lotion
• Q-tips
• Facial tissue
• Combs & brushes
• African American hair & skin care products
• Toilet paper
• Bar soap
• Coffee
• Hot cocoa packets
• Milk
• Cereal
• Tea bags
• Non-refrigerated juice
• Instant breakfast cereal
• Infant formula

If you are interested in attending, reach out below.  You do not need to be a full time creative entrepreneur to attend, but the idea with this meet up is help those who serve others recharge.  If you have a creative mind that aims to do good in the world through art, wellness, your business, or side hustle, you are so welcome! So reach out and  I’ll add you to the list and answer any questions you may have.

I really hope to see you on your mat!

[pp_form id=”df22a633-50e4-4ccc-8b99-e7191935bb02″]