Every year at this time, we take out the paper, sit in reflection and ponder, what will be different in 2012.  Can I truly sustain change in my life and how do I go about it.  As yogis, we are often reminded in our classes, meditation and daily actions that change comes from within.  This article, Nurture the New You, by Kelly McGonigal offers a yogic approach to establishing and maintaining New Year’s resolutions, from within.  You just may want to consider the present moment and begin the journey inward  today, instead of waiting until 2012. 

By Kelly McGonigal

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If you’re committed to change this new year, replace the hard-headed discipline with self-compassion. Studies show it’s a more effective strategy for making all kinds of behavioral changes.

Every resolution to change begins with a burst of hope. You feel great when you do yoga, so you vow to practice every day. Or maybe you realize that your afternoon coffee breaks drain your energy, so you pledge to cut back. When you make these promises, you feel light hearted, elated, perhaps even connected to your higher Self. You’re ready to honor your longing for health and happiness. And deep down, you know you’re up to the challenge.

But after the initial enthusiasm wears off and you hit your first setback (the tempting latte, the skipped yoga practice, your inner critic pipes up. “What’s wrong with you? Why can’t you make this simple change?” The voice gets louder and meaner, and soon self-doubt creeps in. Perhaps you try to rally by setting stricter goals, or maybe you decide the resolution isn’t so important after all. Either way, your inspiration fades —and poof! —your old habits return.

Fortunately, yoga offers an alternative approach for making positive changes in your life: self-compassion. -  Click on the link to see the rest of this article – Nurture the New You at Yoga Journal.com.

 

 

NamasteWorks Yoga + Wellness, 5860 S. Curtice St., Littleton, CO 80120.  We are not a walk-in studio, we operate as a private center for our clients.  All classes require a RSVP. www.namasteworksyoga.com - A Place to Discover Yoga as a Healing Art.