Breakthrough Moments
As with life itself, each moment we move through is finite. They come and go. Some becoming building blocks for what’s ahead, others offering closure so something in the past can finally be put to rest.
But when we pause long enough to truly notice, we can often find the breakthrough moments. The moments where something subtle becomes unmistakably clear or something heavy finally shifts. Sometimes it’s the final moment of a long journey; other times it’s the very first step that sets change in motion. Either way, there’s a before and an after in which life has shifted.
Breakthrough moments almost always arrive with a sense of relief. A deep breath in with an audible exhale that we didn’t realize we were holding. Because the build up to our breakthrough moments often feels like holding our breath, bracing, as if we are going against the grain. And then suddenly the breath drops, the body softens, and we know something important has moved.
Taking awareness of these moments in time allows us to see our progress forward, even if there’s still work to be done. Whether it’s a breakthrough at work, on a mountain accent, or within a conversation that creates the shift, a pause to take in the moment in can make you feel accomplished.
Within our yoga practice, we can feel these moments just as clearly. Sometimes it’s subtle, like realizing, only after the meditation ends, that you had slipped into a deep presence. You notice the softening, the steadiness, and that long exhale that tells you something inside finally let go.
Other times the breakthrough is more obvious. Think of the pause in your breath as you attempt a headstand for the first time. A brief sandpaper moment in time between effort and uncertainty. And then, the moment you realize you’ve arrived. Your breath releases, your body feels steady, and you feel the progress.
Let’s find some breakthrough moments in our practices this week:
Provide yourself a 10-15min warm-up prior to beginning any of the below suggested practice for your week.
Asana Practice: This practice can be done in a Hatha or Vinyasa style based on your needs. Add in yoga props such as blocks, bolster, and a blanket.
Seated Easy > Viloma Pranayama (see below) > Deer (R) > Windshield Wipers > Deer (L) > Table Top > Cat/Cow > Sphinx > Extended Child’s > Thread the Needle (R/L)
Downward Dog > Sun Salutation A > Warrior II > Reverse Warrior > Humble Warrior > Warrior II > Halfmoon (Repeat R/L)
Runner’s Lunge > Low Lunge (R) > Child’s > Kneeling Upward Salute > Low Lunge (L) > Child’s > Prone Savasana
Close out your practice listening to your body for a 10-15min cool down and then 10mins Savasana for rest.
Breathwork: This week let’s work within the Viloma Pranayama. If you are seeking more energy, try this: A full breath in and out to set yourself up for the work. Followed by inhale, pause, inhale pause, inhale to the top, and then a full long exhale. If you are seeking to slow down, try this: A full breath in and out to set yourself up for the work. Followed by a deep inhale, exhale, pause, exhale, pause, exhale pause.
Remember to always practice within your own limits and take care of physical and emotional well-being.
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Questions? Email stephaniepower.ayc@gmail.com.
Let’s grow collectively,
-Stephanie
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