Even Yogis Get the Blues
💙Even Yogis Get the Blues
Alright, let's get real for a sec. We've all been there, right? That feeling when the universe decides to dial down the sunshine and crank up the grey. Even for those of us who regularly twist ourselves into a pretzel on a yoga mat, sometimes you just feel... blah. And you know what? That's totally okay. Because, and I'm sure Tom Robbins would agree, even yogis get the blues. (See what I did there? A little nod to "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues" – great book, by the way, if you're into quirky, philosophical adventures.)
☕The Uninvited Guest: Sadness
We've somehow, as a society, decided that sadness is this unwanted guest we need to kick out immediately. Low energy? Must be fixed! But what if we just... let it sit for a bit? Offer it a cup of tea, maybe. Unless you share the same aversion to tea as Ted Lasso (and me):
"How do you take your tea?
"Ted: "Well, usually I take it right back to the counter because someone's made a horrible mistake".
I'm not talking about wallowing indefinitely, but genuinely allowing ourselves to feel the less-than-sparkly emotions. It's like trying to hold a beach ball underwater – eventually, it's going to pop up with even more force.
In yoga philosophy, we talk about the Gunas – the three qualities of nature: Sattva (lightness, clarity), Rajas (activity, passion), and Tamas (inertia, darkness). We often strive for Sattva, that blissful, clear state. And it's wonderful! But Tamas, that low energy, that feeling of being a bit stuck, it's also a natural part of the cycle. It's not inherently "bad"; it simply is. Demonizing it is like wishing winter never came – impossible and kinda silly. We need the rest and introspection that Tamas can bring.
☔ The Health Benefits of Being "Blah"
Honestly, sometimes a good, quiet period of feeling a bit down can be incredibly healthy. It's a chance to slow down, to process, to reflect. Our bodies and minds aren't meant to be on 'go-go-go' mode all the time. Think of it as a natural re-set button. When we constantly push away these feelings, we're missing out on valuable information our inner selves might be trying to tell us. Maybe you're tired, maybe you need a change, maybe you just need to cry while watching a sappy movie. It's all part of the human experience.
So, next time the blues come knocking, instead of immediately trying to paint on a smile or force yourself into a high-energy activity, try this: acknowledge it. Say, "Hey there, blues. I see you." Then, perhaps, just be with it for a while. You might be surprised at the gentle wisdom that comes from simply allowing yourself to feel.
💕 Lending a Hand (or an Ear) When Others Have the Blues
Now, what about when it's not you feeling a bit blue, but someone we care about? It can be tricky, right? Our first instinct is often to try and fix it, to cheer them up, to offer solutions. Heaven knows I tried (sorry, another Ted Lasso reference!) But sometimes, that's not what's needed.
We all experience these ebbs and flows. If you have a friend, family member, or even a colleague who seems to be wrestling with their own blues, try these things instead of a quick fix:
Just Listen: Seriously, just listen. Without judgment, without offering advice unless they specifically ask for it. Often, people just need to be heard and to feel seen in their struggle. A simple, "That sounds really tough," can go a long way.
Offer Practical Support (Don't Ask): Instead of "Let me know if you need anything," which puts the onus on them, try "Can I drop off some groceries?" or "I'm heading out for coffee, want me to bring you one?" If they're low on energy, making decisions is hard. Just showing up with a small act of kindness can make a huge difference.
Validate Their Feelings: Instead of "Don't be sad," try "It's okay to feel sad right now." Remind them that their feelings are valid and that it's a normal part of life. You're giving them permission to be exactly where they are.
Invite, Don't Pressure: If you're going for a walk, or to a quiet coffee shop, invite them. But be clear that there's no pressure if they're not up for it. "No worries if not, but thought I'd ask." This shows you care without adding another burden to their plate.
Remind Them of Resources (Gently): If their blues seem to be lasting a long time or are very deep, you might gently suggest checking in with a doctor or mental health professional. But again, no pressure. Just a quiet suggestion from a place of care.
Remember, you don't have to be a superhero. Sometimes, just being a calm, understanding presence is the most powerful support you can offer.
Your Point to Ponder:
What if embracing your moments of low energy or sadness isn't a sign of weakness, but a profound act of self-compassion and strength?
Kris
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