"How do I know...?"

Some years ago, this has been one of the most frequent thought I had in my practice (or possibly in life). 'How do I know if I am doing this pose correctly?', 'How do I know that this movement is healthy for my scoliosis?', 'How do I know if I should work through this pain?', 'How do I know if this is enough?'... and it goes on. 

I soon realised this occurrence is very much a mental narration when there is a lack of TRUST, and that this inability to Trust comes from a place of disbelief, of fear, of insecurity. When this is present in one's practice, it may likely be reflected in one's life. It is very disconcerting at times, and diminishes one from experiencing what truly is in the moment. There is so much information gathered from our sensory perception every minute every second every breath. 

The truth is we don't know, and I don't have a conclusive answer when a student approached me with these questions either. What I do know from my experience is that we can learn through exploration without prejudice or judgement, realise that there are always choices in every situation, curiously asking questions without criticism... and with persistence will lead us back to confidence and gaining Trust.

This is the basis of my practice and my teaching since. 

• To listen attentively from moment to moment in my body
• To be honest, and not be consumed by EGO
• To allow for possibilities, and be willing to change course
• To explore without prejudice, preconception or expectation
• To study, be inspired and hang around people who share these values and qualities, and in turn share with others who may benefit from our presence

'How do I know...?' I suppose I don't need to know everything, I just need to have a little faith and a lot of passion. When I arrive on my yoga mat every day, I just need to listen attentively with honesty, and invite EGO to take a back seat.

Jai!