Moving Meditation - The Mind Matters Most
Why do so many people love running yet run from a mediation class? When you view the body from the outside running looks very different from sitting in meditation. When running, the heart is pumping, the breath is flowing, the legs are moving, the body appears to be full of energy. When sitting in meditation, the heart is beating, the breath is flowing, but the body is still and appears to be quiet. Thoughts and focus on breath are necessary. But in both activities, the mind is what matters the most.
As a runner, cyclist, and swimmer, I found true joy training and competing in triathlon. I was truly amazed at how similar my time on the yoga mat was to my training for a 70.3 triathlon when I became engaged in my yoga practice. Although my body was doing completely different activities and movements, my mind was still focused on my breath.
In triathlon and yoga, I endure challenges, overcome fears, and use a single point focus. My breath. My mind must constantly return to my breath to keep my running smooth and solid. My mind had to return to my breath on the bike to send oxygen to my muscles to go the distance. In the water, deep rhythmic breathing would help me stay calm. This was my saving grace during the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon. I am terrified of sharks so as you can imagine the swim in the San Francisco Bay was a large feat. My breath proved to be the steading force that carried me through. I thought inhale…exhale…inhale …exhale and I found rhythm, and eventually the shore.
Now I know why I absolutely love yoga and meditation; it feels very similar to triathlon. I was practicing “anapanasati,” or mindful breathing, all along in the sport of triathlon. At the time, I never realized I was practicing a moving meditation.
I encourage you to open your mind to the benefits of yoga and meditation if you love running, biking, swimming, or any physical activity. You will be amazed at the similarities. Your body will thank you for the flexibility yoga provides and the strength you will build in your mind from long periods of stillness.
Happy Meditating!
Sacha
