Strength

Recently, I have found myself contemplating the concept of true strength. In our practice of yoga, strength is not measured by the number of sun salutations you can flow through or how long you can hold a tree pose. True strength is quieter than that. It’s the courage to keep showing up for yourself with compassion. It’s the resilience to breathe through discomfort without pushing it away. It’s the vulnerability to soften when life gets hard and the presence to stay with what’s real—even when it’s messy.

This week, I invite you to explore strength as steadiness. As rootedness. As the willingness to meet yourself exactly where you are. Let your mat be a space not for proving anything, but for remembering that your breath, your awareness, and your inner steadiness are already enough.

Here’s to practicing the kind of strength that expands your heart and quiets your mind.

Inspire | “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” Mahatma Gandhi

Read | In the height of summer heat, peppermint oil can offer a refreshing break. Try applying a few drops to a carrier oil (like grapeseed or coconut oil) or to some water to be misted. Apply to your pulse points to experience a cooling, soothing effect on both the body and the mind. It’s a simple, natural way to stay centered and cool as temperatures rise. Learn more about the benefits of peppermint oil here.

Try This | When you need to remember your inner strength, ground yourself by standing barefoot on the earth—grass, sand, or even your living room floor. Soften your knees, feel the weight of your body drop into your heels, and take a few slow, deep breaths. With each exhale, imagine releasing doubt and drawing steadiness up from the ground beneath you.