I’ve been thinking…..since I have my little “shift” necklace around my neck to serve as a constant reminder that there is more than one way to look at things….let’s take it a step futher. How about there’s more than one way to not only “look” at things from a different perspective but actually “do” things in a different manner.
I’m sure you’ve heard the definition of insanity right? Insanity = doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. Yes, that truly is insane and can make one feel crazy even when they (think) they aren’t. So here’s the cool part about doing something different, even if it’s the same (what?). You suddenly are placed smack in the mOMent as it’s happening while noticing all the intricacies because the details have captivated your attention. Why? Because it’s out of your routine…..your mind is more likely to notice your surroundings if it’s new or unfamiliar to you. Of course, you have that same opportunity to notice what’s around you at any given point in the day, but routine often let’s our minds off the hook and gives us an easy reason to tune out.
Let’s take the drive to work. The drive to work is the same, day in and day out. Same route, same stop lights, same trees….same path. Now let’s take that same “drive to work” and take a different route. Same drive + different route = new discoveries….What I found was that even though it was the same drive to work (or grocery store, or yoga studio, or bank, or, or, or) discovering new surroundings was actually fun! I noticed houses with paint colors that I had never seen before, architecture that was stunning, and landscaping that makes me want to mix mine up a bit.
You never know where inspiration will find you just at the time you need it most. So go ahead, take a different route and mix it up a bit – I’m sure you’ll find a smidge of unexpected fun. Feel free to report back, I’d love to hear about it.
Whether you’re a yoga teacher or a student and would like to adapt this to your practice click here.
