Ganesha is loved and revered around the world,
known for his ability to “remove obstacles.” While this is a significant aspect, we also understand him as the gateway to yoga practice. He opens the door for us, his large ears reminding us to listen and pay attention. His eyes are gentle and kind, encouraging us to move with care and compassion toward our bodies. When he dances on one leg, he reminds us to find strength and balance in our movements—neither too lax nor too rigid—and to embody the friendly, wise, and diplomatic spirit of the elephant.
The beauty of being in the presence of artwork that gently reminds us how to practice is that it allows us to take our minds off the mundane and turn inward, whether we’re noticing the subtle movement of the pinky toe and appreciating how that itty-bitty part of our feet holds the key to our balance and well-being in postures and while living in our shoes.
I cherish the presence this artwork brings to our classes.
Students appreciate it as well, finding comfort in its reminder of their own inner strength and poise. Its gentle energy encourages everyone to approach practice with kindness and openness.
And as much as I wish yoga is just about the look of a pose,
it's about how we pose ourselves on the inside. What we look at internally, what we feel internally, and what we focus on internally. Yoga is just as much about focus as it is about movement and balance.
Practicing ahimsa (non-harmfulness) on the yoga mat.
Moving in a way that is gentle and kind and not harmful, breathing in a way that invigorates and calms the emotions and wants. Steading the eyes so that they remain focused too. Practicing yoga is an incredible adventure, and I love the image of our class gathered together around the artwork of Ganesha. It warms my heart to know that Ganesha is present for all of us—friendly, wise, and supportive every step of the way. Like a great friend, he encourages our growth, meditations, and upward-moving changes.
