I totally get this, and I suffer from this!
I’m one of the rare non type A ashtangi’s out there.
If you’re in the minority like me, send me a tweet!
I have the hardest time being consistent now that I create my own schedule. I have no idea why it’s so difficult to create a schedule that works, but something’s off.
Back in the day, I used to take practice at 5:30am before I had to go to my dreaded nine to five gig. I did this daily for about 2 years. I would go to sleep around 10pm, and repeat the next day.
It always felt amazing practicing that early. I love more than anything the stillness of the early morning.
The workday stress hasn’t infected the universe yet, and when I start the day with a steady breath, it stays with me.
Now that I get to create my schedule, I fall off of the wagon more than I’d like. I always tell myself to go to sleep by 10pm and wake up by 6am. Drink some coffee. Get on the mat!
I schedule it all in, but it doesn’t always happen. Sometimes I don’t get on the mat until 3:30pm, and that throws off my whole eating and work schedule.
Even so, what I do know is that whatever time I get on the mat is better than not getting on at all.
It’s becoming a ritual for me to practice outside. And, if I’m not outside, I open my window so that I can let in the breeze.
There’s something magical that happens when I breathe in the universe. It’s grounding, it heals my heart, and time stops.
Sometimes I cry. Most of the time I smile.
I realize that you might not be able to organize your practice the same time each day.
Maybe you work full time, and you have kids that you need to attend to.
Maybe your job requires that your schedule changes daily.
Maybe you’re constantly traveling.
This definitely makes it difficult.
I’m here to help!
So, first of all…
You need to give yourself a break.
With a scattered schedule where you’re all over the place, you might need to allow yourself to take a shorter practice.
I know this is difficult, but just remember:
- We all have the same 24 hours to work with.
- You’re doing the best you can with the tools that you have.
- A short practice is better than no practice.
You’ll always feel great in your body and mind after you practice, even if it’s just a Sun Salutation.
Yoga is deeper than following a set of rules and postures.
♥ It’s about your reactions.
♥ It’s about what you feel in your heart.
♥ It’s about quieting your monkey mind.
If you can remember that, than once you feel the anxiety, stress, or guilt arise from not being able to get your whole practice in, remember that this is where the work is.
At this point, it’s not about getting to the final posture you’re working on.
It’s about accepting where you are, practicing non attachment, keeping the peace in your mind, and learning to love yourself.
1) Schedule In Your Practice Daily
Here’s the one thing you absolutely NEED to do. You need to know your schedule for the week, and pick a time to schedule in your practice.
I want you to let go of the two hour time frame for your practice, and find a time that works for you each day.
Of course it’s best to schedule the same time each day, but if you have a scattered schedule, then I want you to choose a time that works for you.
Do this on a Sunday night, so it’s ready for the week ahead.
You can do this:
- In a planner
- On google docs
- Setting an alarm on your phone
Maybe you can find 90 minutes, or maybe it’s a solid 15 minutes, and that’s okay, friend.
Then, you need to stick to that schedule. This is the hardest part, especially if you’re right brained like me!
2) Create a Ritual
I have a few rituals that help, but the the one that sets the tone is opening the window and lighting incense.
There’s a reaction that happens once I open my window and breathe in fresh air. I just feel the stress melt away, and I know everything’s going to be ok.
The smell of the incense is connected to my spiritual practice, and watching the smoke instills a sense of inner peace within me.
Maybe your ritual is that you light a candle. Maybe you put on some music to raise your vibration, or create your to do list for the day to clear your mind first. Maybe you listen to a motivational podcast like The Chalene Show, or clean your yoga space first thing in the morning.
Just create one ritual to start the process. Make sure it’s something that creates a sense of calm and stillness in your heart.
3) Find an Accountability Partner
Do you have a friend who also practices yoga, and struggles with making it to the mat, too?
See if you can set up a daily check in with your friend!
Come up with a plan to motivate and inspire each other through texts or emails.
When you have to be accountable to someone, and you are counting on each other, then you’re more likely to DO IT!
So, let’s recap:
- Schedule in your practice daily, even if it’s just 15 minutes in the morning or before bed.
- Create a ritual to prepare you for your practice.
- Find an accountability partner
- Allow yourself to take a shorter practice
- A short practice is better than no practice.
If you can stick to this, it will help you with everything in life. You’ll create healthy habits, strengthen your follow through muscle, learn to stick to commitments, and become better at organizing your time.
As you become better at this, your schedule will even out, and you’ll find a time where you can create a consistent daily practice.
You’re gonna rock this!
Tell me below what your ritual is! Or, if you have a suggestion for scheduling when you have a jam packed day, tell us your tips!
