Water Wearing Away Rock

A common question I hear from students is, “when will I feel the results of my meditation/yoga practice?”. Or with a regards to a recent dietary shift to whole foods, “I was expecting to feel better already.”

It’s so easy to get discouraged, to feel like our personal growth just isn’t happening quickly enough.

I like to think of it this way; it’s like water wearing away stone. Ever seen the Grand Canyon? I mean, pardon the obvious metaphor, but it is proposed that water seems to have caused this mighty rock erosion. Our practice is the same. Whether we are meditating, doing asana, or making dietary changes, the effects are often subtle and imperceptible. But! As time moves forward these tiny changes have a profound effect. My guru says, “make little changes, daily, and soon you will be amazed at what you can do”. Thanks, Swami Satchidananda.

It’s too easy and too simple to allow yourself to be discouraged. Keep practicing. Keep faith in your progress, and notice those small moments of clarity, physical ease, or  increased energy. Notice these moments and celebrate them! Soon, you will be looking back in awe and pleasure at the ability of your practice to shift your life towards the light!

You can do it! I believe in you! Now believe in yourself, and keep practicing!