The Body's Grace

In this podcast, Sanford, a paraplegic yoga teacher, spoke beautifully about the mind-body connection. He mentions how currently this relationship is one of dominance and violence, and considers the potential of a mind-body connection that is caring, kind and accommodating. 

Sanford speaks about having to break his leg before properly learning the meaning of non-violence. Which for me highlights the more subtle acts of violences we inflict upon ourselves constantly. The critical thought, judgement, put down, pushing ourselves too far, eating too much, not eating enough, drinking too much, expecting ourselves to get this balance perfect, compromising sleep, etc. 

There is a tricky balance that arises for me - In this practice where we are trying to increase our comfort zone and expand to our fullest capacity - How do we make ourselves stronger, more flexible (in mind not just body), more adaptable and calmer without pushing ourselves. Can we push ourselves without violence? Ever so gently? 

In this gentle pushing perhaps this mind-body connection is integral - a constant dialogue of asking and listening. So the relationship isn’t one of dominance and force. Working with rather than against. Not mind over matter, but mind with matter. 

Further, Sanford notes, “I have never seen anyone become more aware of his or her body without also becoming more compassionate.” Is this because when you are feeling your tanglible self you are also feeling the same sensations that other tangible beings must feel? Is it because when you are feeling your alive body, you realise how dependent that body is on other living organisms, how your body is just one in a larger ecosystem that operates much better when it works with other organisms/bodies? Connecting with our own body non-violently perhaps simultaneously connects us with other bodies in a non-violent way.