Evolution of a Yoga Practice

Written by Emma Dasco

“You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection.” - Buddha 

In a world that often pressures us to prove our worthiness, yoga stands as a sanctuary—a space that requires no validation, no competition, and no comparison. It is a practice that embraces every individual on their unique journey toward self-discovery and self-love. In this blog post, let’s explore how yoga can become the ultimate embodiment of self-love– a transformative journey that taps into the mind-body connection, fosters resilience, and celebrates the ever-changing abilities of our bodies.

The Evolution of My Yoga Journey:

When I stepped onto my yoga mat at 15 years old, I did not seek a path to a higher being. I came from a background in competitive dance, so I was drawn to the physicality of yoga and the fluidity of breath to movement connection. Little did I know that the true revelation would be the strength and love I discovered within myself. I felt a deep connection to the practice at a young age, and sought out my first Yoga Teacher Training program when I was 17, despite being the youngest one in the program. It wasn’t until later in the year-long teacher training that I discovered my appeal to yogic philosophy through reading the Yamas & Niyamas by Deborah Adele, translations of the Bhagavad Gita, and Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. I began to shift my internal lens to the depths of the practice on an emotional, energetic, and mental level. Each yoga practice became a sacred opportunity to delve deeper into the intricate connection between my mind and body. Through the power of breath, the fluidity of movement, and the unwavering focus cultivated on the mat, I unearthed a profound love for my body and its incredible ability to adapt and evolve. Yoga helped me to better understand my emotional depths and build mental resilience. 

Discovering the Love Within:

Unlike the external demands that surround us, the mat is a judgment free space where winning holds no significance. The longer I’ve continued to practice yoga, the longer I hold poses and give myself permission to take lengthy savasanas. For me, this is the true essence of yoga. It’s not in my ability to do a handstand, but what I’ve learned in the depths of stillness. 

Each practice is not a competition but a new chance to explore, learn, and embrace the full spectrum of your being. Your yoga practice becomes a canvas for self-expression, self-acceptance, and self-love. Yoga teaches us that strength is not just a physical attribute but an internal force that emanates from the core of our being. As for the expression of love for your body and others. It already exists within you. My practice continues to transform everyday, and has become a mirror reflecting my innate resilience, compassion, and my limitless potential residing in every breath. 

In moments of anxiety and self doubt, yoga provides a sanctuary of self-awareness. The ability to catch myself in a spiral and pause— choosing to get curious about the root of the emotion, or redirect my thoughts into affirmations of my intention has become a valuable gift in my daily life. My yoga practice is a haven where self-doubt dissipates, making room for self-compassion, acceptance, and the recognition of the beauty inherent in imperfection and the ebb and flow of life. The insights I gain in yoga act as a guide for me into the realms of personal relationships, family, work, and daily emotional challenges. Some might assume I carry this ease with me all the time, and that is not the case. Even during moments of reactivity and doubt, that is yoga too. 

Conclusion:

Yoga, for me, has become a constant, evolving practice of love—a journey that transcends the physical postures and stretches into the depths of self-discovery. It is an empowering reminder that love is not earned, it is inherent. As we unroll our mats, we unroll a path to self-love—a path that weaves its way into our lives, transforming every step into a balance of authenticity, strength, and unconditional love.