Yoga for High Performers
It’s just not true that yoga is only for the flexible or only for those who practice yoga…
When you look at what high performance coaches are teaching around the world, it boils down to yoga. And I don’t just mean the poses you do on a yoga mat.. it’s the mindset of a yogi, the attitude (or energy) of a yogi, the ability to calm the nervous system, to visualize a goal and reach it, the willingness to be uncomfortable over and over again.
So how do you get started?
You have to be willing to learn something new, to be a beginner and this can be difficult for high performers. Yoga isn’t something you can muscle up and will yourself through. It’s a practice, a journey, and a lifelong commitment to self discipline.
The benefit high performers have is that you ARE willing to be consistent and committed for the long haul, which makes yoga the perfect practice to accompany your other activities.
You start by showing up.
You’ll get frustrated if you believe yoga is something that you can master. Instead, you use the tools from yoga to master other things in your life.
For example, you learn how to regulate your nervous system through breath work and going in to speak with your intimidating boss becomes less nerve wrecking. You’re calm and can handle the hard conversation with ease and better negotiating power.
Or let’s take high performance athletes.. when you can visualize your goal and have learned to embrace discomfort on the mat, there is certainty and confidence that will override the challenges that come up in your mind while you’re performing.
What else is there to yoga besides the poses?
There are 8 limbs to yoga, you can think of these like pillars, designed to work together to support your practice.
YAMA – Restraints, moral disciplines or moral vows
kindness
truthfulness
non-stealing
moderation
generosity
NIYAMA – Positive duties or observances
purity
contentment
austerity
self study
surrender
ASANA – Postures
PRANAYAMA – Breathing Techniques
PRATYAHARA – Sense Withdrawal
DHARANA – Focused Concentration
DHYANA – Meditative Absorption
SAMADHI – Bliss or Enlightenment
You can start by practicing the 8 limbs on your yoga mat (here’s a quick 30 min yoga practice to help you feel STRONG in mind and body today https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGfybwWvNWM ) and the tools you learn on the mat, you can begin implementing in your work place, on the field, or in your relationships.
There is no replacement for a CALM MIND and a HEALTHY BODY.
Yoga gives you both. And when you learn how to utilize these tools on and off the mat, the gaps between where you are and where you want to be start to disappear.
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Cheers!
Kasidy