Perfectionism and Yoga

Perfection in an asana is achieved when the effort to perform it becomes effortless and the infinite being within is reached. - Yoga Sutras

     Often we come to yoga with a destination or goal in mind.  We want to achieve or master a certain posture or postures.  We think that if we can get into an inversion or finally bind in another we will be doing yoga.  We become so attached to the final expression of the pose we miss the essence of yoga.  The goal of asana is not to push or stretch or bend our bodies into a position.  The asana practice is done to teach us to be present, to practice non judgement, and learn contentment.  

     If we become so attached to the final expression of a posture we are not being present.  We are often pushing our selves too hard.  So how do we find a balance?  We must let go of our attachments, we must be present in the postures, and we must learn to accept where we are in that moment.  Each day we come to our mats we are a little different than the day before.  Maybe our balance is better or worse than the previous day or maybe we are more stiff or more flexible.  We have to learn to trust we are exactly were we are meant to be.   knowing that with consistent practice we will grow and transform without being attached to any outcomes.  This is the practice of yoga.