Maintaining motivation for Ashtanga yoga, especially after experiencing significant life events or mental health struggles, can be challenging. Here are some key insights and advice tailored specifically for Ashtanga yoga practitioners to help navigate these motivation slumps and rekindle your practice.

Embrace the Struggle and Discipline

In Ashtanga yoga, the discipline of the practice is integral. The set sequence of poses can sometimes feel repetitive, but it’s crucial to rely on discipline rather than waiting for motivation to strike. Establishing a routine and being consistent with your practice, even when motivation is lacking, can help rekindle your passion. Remember that feeling unmotivated or uninterested at times is normal and part of the journey.

Setting Small, Achievable Goals

Start with small, manageable goals instead of overwhelming yourself with the idea of a daily practice. Aiming for a couple of sessions per week can help in gradually building consistency. This approach makes the practice more sustainable and less daunting. In Ashtanga, focusing on mastering a particular asana or sequence can provide a tangible goal to work towards.

The Power of Community and Mysore Style Classes

Practicing Ashtanga yoga in a community setting or attending Mysore style classes can provide the structure and peer support needed to stay committed. Mysore classes, where practitioners move through the sequence at their own pace with individualized instruction, offer a blend of independence and community support. The accountability and encouragement from fellow practitioners can be a powerful motivator.

Acceptance and Self-Compassion

Acceptance of your current state and practicing self-compassion are crucial. It’s okay to sit on the mat and do nothing or just engage in some basic stretches. This time can be used for introspection and acknowledging your feelings. Recognizing that these ebbs in motivation are natural can help reduce self-criticism and foster a gentler approach to your practice.

Exploring New Avenues and Cross-Training

Diversifying activities can also reignite interest in Ashtanga yoga. Engaging in other forms of physical activity that you enjoy, such as walking, hiking, or even other styles of yoga, can serve as a complement to your Ashtanga practice. This variety can break the monotony and bring a fresh perspective to your practice.

Addressing Mental Health and Overall Wellbeing

Lack of motivation could be linked to underlying mental health issues, such as depression. Being gentle and patient with yourself, focusing on overall wellbeing, and considering professional help when needed are important. Enhancing gut health, which has been shown to influence mood and energy levels, can also be a holistic approach to improving motivation.

Reflecting and Reconnecting with the Practice

Take time to reflect on what initially drew you to Ashtanga yoga and reconnect with those aspects. Writing down your thoughts and feelings or setting intentions for each practice can create a deeper connection with the mat. Recognizing the non-linear nature of Ashtanga practice and accepting that periods of low motivation are part of the process can help maintain a long-term commitment.

The Importance of Routine and Listening to the Body

Establishing a routine, even if it means simply sitting on the mat every day, can be beneficial. Listening to your body’s needs rather than forcing yourself to follow a rigid schedule ensures that the practice remains enjoyable and sustainable. Working on specific aspects, such as improving a particular asana or sequence, can provide a sense of progress and purpose.

Conclusion

Maintaining an Ashtanga yoga practice is filled with ups and downs. By embracing discipline, setting achievable goals, leveraging community support, practicing self-compassion, and addressing overall wellbeing, you can navigate motivation slumps and continue to find joy and fulfillment in your Ashtanga journey.