Healing Words Within Our Body: soften, melt, surrender, whole(ness), gentle, release, breathe, invite, feel, let go, assimilate, nourish, observe, joyfully, love, offer, access, integrate, flow, allow, transition, impartially, sweeten, transcend, tenderly, ground, stimulate, centre, nurture, awareness, peace, miraculous, heartfelt, organic, smooth, soothe, advocate, please, relax, expand, passionate, presence, bliss, manifest, notice, receive, smile, remember, grace, lighten, subtle, uplift, brighten, precious, goodness, pause, witness, support, openness, sukha, loving kindness, acceptance, sensation, consciously, welcome, embrace, beauty, exploration, amazement
The above word list fell out of a book from a yoga therapy training from several years ago. Sometimes it takes things literally falling into my lap to know it was meant for me. This was a gentle reminder that in a state of healing, our words and thoughts (both conscious and unconscious) play an integral part in the outcome. “Healing Words” as it was labeled, was compiled by the teachers in the training to help each other speak to our students in a way that would encourage them to have a nurturing relationship with their body. Regardless of the conditions, diagnoses, or experiences, self talk is the sounding board for our innate ability to heal.
The Yoga Sutras of Healing Words
In ancient philosophy of yoga, the yoga sutras offer a present day GPS to find physical, emotional, mental and spiritual well being. Out of some 196 sutras, a mere three directly discuss the physical aspects of yoga (asana). And to the surprise of many practitioners, the suggestions could easily slide into the “Healing Words” list.
Sutra 2.46 sthira sukham asanam – postures should be steady and comfortable.
Sutra 2.47 prayatna saithilya ananta samapattibhyam – perfecting the posture means releasing tension or effort to remain in it and allow attention to merge with the infinite.
2.48 tatah dvandvah anabhighatah – then the perfected posture brings balance to complimentary opposites and freedom from suffering.
It was dark stories that ultimately brought us to the yoga therapy training. But at some point, and perhaps presently, our journeys were graced with the healing power of yoga firsthand – that of body, mind, emotion and spirit. Often confused with curing, we came to understand that healing is an inside job. It requires effort, form and self-discipline. But never without “Healing Words”.
Peace and Light,
Megan
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