Looking Good

There is a commercial on the local TV channel that advertises a certain new car that has many wonderful features such as IPod connection, bluetooth, and various driving advantages. Not a car buff myself, I don't understand nor pay much attention to the commercial. However, what perks my ears up is when the voice on TV says, "And you will look GREAT driving it!" as its final and most important selling point. Vanity strikes again.

Of course we all want to look good, because it makes us feel good. But if we put too much emphasis on simply looking good on the outside, without examining how we feel inside, then all we have is appearance without substance and feeling.

During a yoga class, when there is a mixture of those who have practiced for many years and those who are fairly new or brand new, it's often very intimidating for beginners to compare their own skills with others. Some new comers never return, feeling hopeless in their own ability to "perform" and to look as good as others. What is not apparent to the naked eyes is whether those who look great are actually feeling the benefits of practicing from within, with an open heart, soft eyes, steady breathing, and relaxed mind.

When we struggle and work too hard to reach our perception of perfection, we risk injury, not only to our body, but also to our mind and spirit. Vanity has been a downfall for many since time eternal, and it is no exception in yoga practice. Being humble and reflective, accepting our limitations, and viewing the practice as a life long journey will bring us much comfort and peace of mind. Looking good is only a superficial success.

"Life is a compromise of what your ego wants to do, what experience tells you to do, and what your nerves let you do." ---Bruce Crampton---
Namaste,
Clarie