Sometimes the holidays can be stressful… spending time with family members we may not see eye to eye with can be challenging. Of course, we all know that we aren’t going to change our great uncle joe’s religious views (or his need to convert everyone), or soften aunt betty’s criticism of our life choices.

But, we CAN maintain peace within.

Most people start yoga because of physical pain, but they stay for the peace of mind.

Yogas chitta vritti nirodha is a Sanskrit phrase that appears in the Yoga Sutras and translates to "Yoga is the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind". It's a teaching by Patanjali, who is often called the "Father of Yoga".

The phrase emphasizes the importance of controlling the mind and recognizing that it doesn't always allow you to see the truth. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you no longer think or see with your mind. It means that through the practice of yoga, you become an observer of your mind. You become able to watch when your mind moves through these fluctuations and you can take action from a place of awareness.

So, instead of getting triggered at your next holiday gathering, you can remain present and in control of your thoughts and actions.

I’ve included a meditation in this month’s newsletter to help you practice, hope you enjoy it.