In yoga, like in life, one of the main challenges we face is dealing with the fluctuations of the mind. Often our mind shifts from one thought or worry to another, creating a roller coaster of emotions that can be difficult to handle. Many times our thoughts will turn into feelings and those feelings can determine how we view the world and can seriously affect our state of being. When unchecked these thoughts have the potential to rule our existence, shifting us away from the peace and happiness that we all deserve.

 
Luckily with yoga we have tools that we can use to help solve this dilemma. In Yoga Sutra 1:2 Patanjali states "Yogash chitta-vritti-nirodhah", which is Sanskrit for "Yoga is realized when identification with the fluctuations of the mind ceases" (translation by Sharon Gannon & David Life). When we practice the various limbs of yoga we are given the opportunity to change these patterns of thoughts and move beyond them, giving us an opportunity to find peace and deeper meaning in our lives.
 
One way we can change these patterns is by using our physical practice to help smooth out the fluctuations of the mind. For instance, when we find ourselves in an asana (posture) that is difficult for us our mind tends to race, comparing our physical state with someone else's or where we used to be. Our egos can often take over at these times and we can push ourselves into asanas we aren't ready for, creating pain or even injuries in our bodies. When we step back and become the observer of the mind without reacting we can see our bodies as holders of information rather than the only source of our happiness. In detaching from our thoughts we can learn how to accept ourselves and be happy with the here and now, no longer letting our ego rule our lives.
 
I often think about the process of becoming the observer of our thoughts as being a surfer on beautiful ocean waves. Our thoughts can be seen as powerful ocean waves that have the potential to take us down. But when we learn how to ride the waves we can start to surf, finding the joy of being in the moment and eventually maybe even enjoying the entire ride.
 

Wishing you a very happy day and I'm hoping that you find peace and happiness while learning how to surf,

Anya