Finding Refuge from an Overwhelming World

In an article in Yoga Journal, Judith Hanson Lasater shares how you can take a refuge from the busyness and stress. As she says, “(refuge) is not about running away, but rather it is about deciding what you want to move toward. Refuge is not dependent upon a location at all. Rather, it is actually an intention we can choose.”

Being present in our lives helps us to navigate the world. Practices such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and breathwork calm the mind and body so can experience a different way of living that is not full of angst.

Judith also says, “The ultimate self-care is recognizing that you are more than your surface self and remember to act from this realization. When you do this, you may feel a spontaneous and sometimes surprising upwelling of kindness, compassion, and joy.”

“Restorative Yoga poses are particularly helpful. For example, time spent reposing in a supported Savasana (Corpse Pose) can reinforce that you are “enough” and have value simply because you exist. That’s because Savasana tells your nervous system that is it OK to let go: that you do not have to be doing and producing all of the time in order to feel full and content with who you are.”

In Madison, I offer restorative yoga sessions at my Northside studio. I can offer online on Zoom in private sessions and in group classes if there is interest.

Typically, I include Crystal Singing Bowls and other instruments. I also include for you a special essential oil blend as a diffuser or roll-on to use during and after your session. It’s important to learn to give yourself self-care in mind, body & spirit. Through our session together, you will find it as a refuge for you to explore your inner self, receive relaxation, and cultivate a calm mind.

In addition to Restorative Yoga, Mindfulness Meditation and Guided Rest Meditation (Yoga Nidra) practices can also assist us. See my Online and Madison schedules for classes in meditation. These and other practices can assist us with Mindful Resilience.

For the in person Madison sessions, see schedule.

If you are interested in private sessions, contact me.

To read more of Judith Hanson Lasater’s article go to Yoga Journal’s site.

Originally posted 1/15/21

Deb Phelps

Deb Phelps

Deb Phelps is a certified Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher, and Practitioner since 1980. She is also a Mindfulness Coach, Sound Energy Practitioner, and Yoga Specialist who uniquely assists her clients to overcome stress, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and other life situations so that they can once again live purposeful, joy-filled lives. Deb has overcome significant life challenges aided by a variety of mind-body-spirit practices. By diligently using these tools over many decades, she found a life of contentment and equanimity. Through extensive education and life experience, including living for one year in a spiritual community, she assists and inspires others to do the same. ~ Deb Phelps, C.MI, MMT, E-RYT500, LVCYT, YACEP