This article was originally published at Yoganonymous.com
If you want to make the world a better place…give yourself a break!
We hear the word a lot: SEVA. Selfless service. It’s the ultimate way of life for the die-hard yogi. Based on the universal concept, “the more you give, the more you receive,” we must also find the reverse to be true to have the greatest impact in the world. The more you receive, the more you give. It sounds selfish at first, but hear me out.
Giving is great. Receiving is awesome too. Don’t forget about you! What are you giving to yourself to help keep you in tip-top shape to save the world? This ain’t easy work sistas and brothas.
The more you take care of yourself – rest, rejuvenate, restore – the more fuel you’ll store to burn that endless giving engine of yours. Finding that balance of giving to others and giving to yourself will keep you on an even keel. You won’t feel angry, jealous, overwhelmed, depressed, harried or burnt out; rather, you’ll feel energized, elated, focused and motivated to give everything you have to someone in need. You’ll transfer positive energy into your work, and your work will become much more effective, efficient and meaningful.
We know, it doesn’t make sense. We live in a task-oriented world, where the more we “get done” in a day, the more productive we are. Since when did “getting a massage” not count as getting something done? Since when did your work become more important than your health and well-being? You can’t show up for others and do good work if you aren’t healthy and strong. When you look at it this way, it’s worth it to get a one-hour massage once a week, take some time to read a book or just relax without a computer, phone or TV by your side.
Thing is, it’s not selfish to take care of yourself! Don’t feel guilty for booking a rejuvenating, inspiring weekend to restore. You deserve it and your work as a SEVA yogi will be better for it. The world will be better for it.
Hanuman Festival offers yoga classes in a multitude of styles, musical experiences for all types, a free Vendor Village with a stellar, playful, stress-free vibe, Hanumission talks for those looking to feel inspired and the playground that is Boulder, CO, for those who just want to get away. If you want rejuvenation, you’ll find it here – on your own or with friends. You’ll feel supported, rested, and motivated to devote your life to self-care and you’ll be better equipped to save the world!
If this message resonates with you, consider one of Hala Khouri’s classes or the Off The Mat, Into the World workshop with Kerri Kelly and Suzanne Sterling at Hanuman Festival 2012. Join us on Facebook for the latest updates and sign up for our newsletter list to keep informed.
Here’s to dedicating our lives to a better tomorrow and staying healthy and strong along the way!
