Crafting a Path of Practice

As a longtime practitioner and teacher of yoga, I know that each person who unrolls their mat has their own reason for practicing.

Some may seek a stronger, more supple body. Others may need to clear their minds, feel more grounded, or find a sense of relaxation. Some may come to heal.

Each person who chooses to practice is seeking something—a shift, a transformation, a way to feel more like themselves.

In the yoga tradition, the word sadhana refers to a dedicated path of practice toward a particular goal. Its literal meaning is a means of accomplishing something.

But this idea of sadhana extends far beyond what happens on the mat.

“Sadhana is a Sanskrit word whose root sadh means to reclaim that which is divine within us—our power to heal, serve, rejoice, and uplift the spirit. Sadhana practices encompass all our daily activities, from the simple to the sublime—from cooking a meal to exploring your inner self through meditation. The goal of sadhana is to enable you to recover your natural rhythms and realign your inner life and daily habits with the cycles of the universe.”
— Maya Tiwari

There are many ways to reclaim your natural rhythms and realign your inner life—and many kinds of practices you may choose to incorporate. Some may come from established traditions like yoga, others from your family’s spiritual heritage or from cultures and practices that resonate with your path.

Get curious. Explore practices you’ve learned and those you’re drawn to. Learn about and honor the lineage they come from.

Types of Practice

Movement Practices
Yoga, breathwork, tai chi, qi gong, dancing, mindful walking, nature walks

Contemplative Practices
Meditation, prayer, centering, yoga nidra, reading sacred texts, quiet reflection

Voice Practices
Chanting, praying, creating affirmations, singing

Generative Practices
Journaling, gratitude lists, painting, drawing, playing music, preparing and serving food

Ritual & Cyclical Practices
Seasonal cleansing, ritual purifications, full or new moon observances, spiritual ceremonies, ancestor honoring, vision quests

Relational Practices
Dialogue, storytelling, deep listening, gathering in circle

Activist Practices
Pilgrimages, vigils, protests, marches, bearing witness

Inquiry: Creating Your Own Path of Practice

• If you already have a personal or spiritual practice, why do you practice?
  
  
• If you don’t yet have a practice, what intention might guide you in creating one?
  
  
• How might a path of practice support your personal development, spiritual growth, or wellbeing?
  
  
• What practices would you like to commit to daily?
  
  
• What about weekly? Monthly? Seasonally?
  
  
• What support or resources do you need to help you stay connected to your path?
  
  

Resources to Support Your Journey

• Yoga Offerings Livestream classes, on-demand videos, and private sessions
  
  
• Holistic Wellness Coaching Support for personal growth and wellbeing
  
  
• Wellbeing at Work Mindful practices for the workplace

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