Dialectical thinking is the idea that two seemingly opposite ideas can go hand in hand

Last month I posted on my socials about how when we hold two seemingly opposing viewpoints at the same time, we can uncover more authenticity and acceptance within our life.

For example...

In times of enormous pain, distress or grief, I might feel hopeless and depleted. AND ALSO, a friend could make a funny comment that brings me true joy and laughter in that moment.

Am I happy? - yes, no, maybe. Happiness is not a permanent state, so maybe I AM happy in that moment. And I'm also deeply sad and distressed.

Bringing to light the paradoxes in our life is empowering because instead of trying to ignore the 'shadow-y' or shameful parts of ourself, we simultaneously recognise this alongside the value and wisdom we each hold.

Yoga speaks to a concept called 'avidya' - it's a veil that obscures our perception. It can make us feel like we're broken or not worthy.

But yoga offers that we are all an embodiment of true and endless love. And the practice of yoga is here to remind us of that.

There's nothing to fix. We can make mistakes, and still be loving, kind humans at our core.

There can be people with opposing values or political standpoints, and also, they may share our style of humour or a value we don't see from the outset.

Yoga reminds us we're all innately valuable. Speaking to and about others (and ourself!) with ahisma (loving-kindness) is just one of yoga's principles for crafting a fulfilling and purposeful existence.

I invite you to observe how opposites exist in your experience this week - people you meet, parts of yourself, even in ways your physical body feels (hot/cold, heavy/light).

As always, reach out with any questions on yoga or reflections you'd like to share. I'm always here.

Warmly,

Verity