Is it Time to Change Your Perspective? Hang Upside Down! [WRITING YOGA® PROMPT #2016]
Aug 09, 2023Wait, you want me to hang upside down? Hear me out, there are many ways we can change our orientation on the planet without going to the monkey bars. Yesterday, I did a simple forward fold, my feet were wide apart, my hands supported my weight on the ground and I noticed three things: 1) My head felt empty and free 2) My body felt calm and 3) My studio looked a lot better and cleaner upside down.
So next time you are in an inverted yoga pose, pay attention to what you see, think and feel. What does a new perspective reveal for you?
WRITING YOGA® PROMPT #2016: It's All About Perspective
Sit: Get a New Perspective
Walk around your home or neighborhood as if you were a stranger. Look at each object one at a time. What do you notice? Yesterday, I walked around my house seeing the rooms from upside down. Every single room looked nicer. I am sure there’s a scientific reason for this because when we are stuck in the familiar we can’t see our way to make a change. Take time to walk slowly in your environment for about 5-10 minutes. Breathe deeply. Pick a quiet time of day when you won't get funny looks from the neighbors.
Sometimes, it’s not just the act of seeing differently but feeling differently that makes the biggest impact. As you walk, pay attention to how your body moves through the space. Notice how the air feels against your skin or how the light filters through the trees or windows. Let yourself be curious, as if you're visiting this place for the very first time. What surprises you? What brings you a sense of comfort or wonder? By combining movement with mindfulness, you might uncover new insights that were hiding in plain sight.
Move: Look Upside Down
Downward dog, forward folds, even reclining in a chair with your head leaning back will give you a new perspective. Today practice your favorite inversion and notice changes in your mind, body and attitude. I use forward folds with kids because it really helps to calm the energy in the room. It is also great for reducing anxiety any time of day! Choose one pose to work with for 5 deep breaths. Take your time to come up so you don't get lightheaded.
As you practice your inversion, pay attention to the subtle shifts that occur. How does your breathing change? Do you feel a sense of grounding or lightness? Take a moment to reflect on how this simple movement transforms your physical sensations and mental clarity. Inversions can be a powerful tool not only for calming the nervous system but also for sparking creativity and a fresh outlook on challenges. Let the experience guide you toward a renewed perspective.
Write: What's Gotta Change?
After you have completed your mindful walk (this week's Sit) and practiced one "Upside down pose", you may be feeling and noticing some changes in your perspective. This can be challenging. That little voice inside us tells us what we see for better or for worse. Don't judge what you see. Write your truth. When we write, speak and live our truth, new opportunities have a way of presenting themselves to us.
Take a few moments to sit with what you’ve written. Reread your words slowly, letting them sink in. Notice if any patterns or recurring themes emerge. Writing can be a mirror, reflecting not just our thoughts but also our inner growth. If you feel inspired, turn your reflections into intentions—small, actionable steps you can take to honor your truth in the days ahead. This practice is about discovery, not perfection, so let your words guide you forward.
Best of luck on your new perspective! Share your thoughts with us anytime!
Are you a parent, teacher or librarian who wants to test out Writing Yoga®? I’d like to invite you to my next free Monthly Workshop.
Remember to sit, write & move each day for a calm, creative & more compassionate life. If you want to immerse yourself in all the benefits of Writing Yoga® Method, please check out my course right here. This interactive course will help you jumpstart healthy and creative practices to: 1) Reduce stress 2) Write and 3) feel luminous.
For more activities and resources, please go to www.WritingYoga.com
Thank you for making the world a calmer, more creative and compassionate place!
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