Yoga for Stories

Writing is a solitary endeavor. It takes courage, discipline, confidence, patience and perseverance to write. As I write, there is a duplicitous, imaginary critic peering over my shoulder chastising me for using the wrong grammar, for not rewriting immediately, for using the wrong words, and a number of other things. Writers are encouraged to block out that inner critic, but that is a very tawdry and tiring task. When we hit that incongruous state, writing becomes stressful and unproductive.

What changed? Since I’ve been practicing yoga, I haven’t fought with my inner critic. He is tucked away until I summoned him for editing. I cannot pinpoint the day that I overthrow my inner critic, stifling his ability to thwart my creativity, but I know that yoga was my acomplice. Through yoga, I’ve learned the importance of balance, focus and acceptance. Yoga and writing are homogenous counterparts, both aiding my intinsic development.

When I write, I must be lucid, calm, and inspired to create and yoga helps because it teaches me self-awareness and acceptance, to stay in the current unique moment. The introspection keeps my thoughts steady as I write. Through the breathing, my body and mind connect to create a space of unity inside of me that is storng, confident and peaceful. This mindful state is constant, a way of life that supports my imagination.

Yoga develops a strong and agile mind, which is integral for the solitary folds of writing. If you are a writer, embracing yoga can enhance your creativity and writing as well as your mental, physical and emotional dexterity. Most of all, yoga can help you control and positively use your inner critic.