
Self-compassion is often overlooked in the whirlwind of daily life, especially for women navigating midlife transitions. Yet, developing a nurturing and forgiving relationship with oneself is critical for emotional well-being. One of the most powerful and holistic paths to self-compassion is through the practice of Hatha Yoga. Beyond its physical benefits, Hatha Yoga offers a sacred space for self-reflection, self-love, and deep healing.
Exploring Self-Appreciation Through Gratitude
Gratitude is a close companion of self-compassion, and Hatha Yoga provides the time and space to cultivate it. At the end of your practice, take a moment in meditation to express gratitude—not just for the positives in your life but also for your body, your efforts, and even your struggles.
Each time you thank yourself for showing up, you reinforce the belief that you are deserving of care and compassion.
Finding Community in Your Practice
While Hatha Yoga is deeply personal, practicing with others can be a comforting reminder of our shared humanity. When you see others stumbling, growing, or thriving on their own mats, you’re reminded that no one is perfect—and that’s perfectly okay.
Studio classes provide a supportive environment where you can connect with others who share similar goals of mindfulness and growth. Practicing alongside others can help you build a sense of community and remind you that struggles and progress are part of a shared human experience.
At NOVA we had a wonderful session of yoga with focusing on self compassion last night. Our lovely yoga teacher Kara enriched it even more with a wonderful poem by Erin Hanson while we were practising Shavasana...
If there's one thing that I may tell you
Let it be: You are your home,
Your body is the only house
That you will every truly own,
Maybe it's got some broken windows
And there are tear-stains on the floors,
Maybe you lock the things you wish you weren't
Behind its many doors,
But there is wisdom on its bookshelves
And a laugh to light the rooms,
There's a vase upon the table
Where the love you've grown all blooms,
Dreams sit on the mantelpiece Next to kindness and your trust,
Where you use them all so often
They have no time to collect dust,
So please don't look at mansions
With that envy in your eyes,
There's more that makes a home
Than its appearance or its size,
Your body is your shelter
So you deserve to love it all,
Don't let the world stand round outside
And tell you how to paint your walls,
How lucky that you have somewhere
To protect you from the night,
And if there's cracks left from the past?
Well then they just let in more light.
Thank you Kara !