distraction (disĀ· tracĀ· tion) : a thing
that
prevents
someone from giving
full attention to something else
We have all had that moment in class when we lose our focus (and subsequently our balance). It can be frustrating. Whether we are distracted by something inside of us - a thought or self doubt. Or something on the outside - the person next to us or the sound of a cell phone buzzing.
We can only relax into our pose by giving our full awareness to the present moment. And, part of that practice is learning how to both minimize and respond to distractions.
Easier said than done, right?
As always - awareness is the first step. Next time you find yourself distracted, take note. Ask yourself, what was so enticing to pull your attention away - Was it just a force of habit? Curiosity? Discomfort? Self doubt?
Now that you're aware of the distraction and why it draws you away, the next step is practice.
Your yoga practice is the perfect time to practice staying focused in spite of distraction. Learning to be with yourself without thoughts of judgment or comparison to the person next to you. Learning to stay in the moment when a distraction occurs (and to get back on track when you veer off course).
You can practice this outside of the studio as well.
We spend so much of our time in a state of distraction. Think about your cell phone for a minute and how it reinforces and rewards this state. Constant notifications and connectedness, draw us away from our own full awareness in any given moment.
Notice your behavior this week with your cell phone. How often does it draw your attention away? Use your phone as an opportunity to learn about yourself and what you might be avoiding. This practice will not only help your day-to-day life, but your yoga practice as well. Give it a shot and let us know what you discover.
And, by all means, protect your yoga practice. Shut off unnecessary distractions before you step into the studio - for the sake of both you and your fellow practitioner. Take a moment before you step out of your car to put your phone in airplane mode. Take a deep breath as you step into the studio and give yourself the opportunity to be unplugged and present.
With time and practice, you will notice distractions having less power over your practice and life, both on and off the mat.