Mantra of the month
When times are tough or uncertain we can easily lose our sense of self and feel as if we don't know if we are coming or going. We disconnect from our true being and get caught up in our stresses, worries and anxiety.
In order to stay grounded we must stay connected to the self through a practice of stillness in body and mind. There are lots of mindfulness tools and activities we can use to help do this, a few examples being meditation, yin yoga, being outside in nature and anything that helps you to find an emotional escape from what's troubling you.
For me, the practice of modern calligraphy has had a huge impact on my mental health, helping me find some calm and clarity. A mindful and creative activity like this encourages you to focus solely on just that, and your worries fade away.
Other ideas could be cooking, life drawing, painting, knitting and so on.
Once we connect to our true self we start to feel a sense of 'coming home to oneself'. Feel what it's like to be you breathing in your body. Feel sensations such as your heart beating in your chest. You will soon find you become more grounded just through this practice of looking inward and the simple observation of what you find.
In moments of stillness with your eyes closed allow for yourself to be as heavy as you can be. Feel what it's like to be safe, supported, and held by the surface beneath you. The breath is another powerful tool to help achieve this sensation, using every exhale to let go of any tension in the body and mind. Using the mantra 'I am grounded' with the breath.
Try this pose...
Tree Pose (Vrksasana)
This pose is perfect to accompany your mantra. Stand tall and ground through the standing leg…connecting to the ground beneath you through the sole of your feet (pada bandha).
Kirstie Bird is a yoga teacher and modern calligrapher (inkandflow.com). Find her on Instagram @inkandflowlondon
Om Magazine
First published in November 2009, OM Yoga magazine has become the most popular yoga title in the UK. Available from all major supermarkets, independents and newsstands across the UK. Also available on all digital platforms.
