Balance

Balance renders life fruitful.
~Yogacharya Ellen Grace O'Brian

We often hear about having balance in our life, but what does that really mean and how do we achieve balance?  At this time of year, we can get easily out of balance with the busyness of shopping and social gatherings. We may get out of balance with what and how much we are eating. The teachings of Kriya Yoga are all about balance. At the basic level we can look at what we eat. Do we eat food that bring us health and well being or do we eat food that might taste good in the moment but bring us discomfort in the long run? Are we getting enough sleep so that during our waking hours we are able to respond to stressful situations with discernment rather than react and maybe say or do something that is not useful? During our busy day do we take breaks for rest and sweetness? Do we take some time in the silence of meditation each day? Do we take time for light exercise each day? Can we turn away from what we find stressful (like the news) and turn towards things, situations and people that are uplifting and bring us joy. Turn away from what you know doesn't support your highest good and towards what lifts you up. As Roy Eugene Davis, the esteemed teacher of Kriya Yoga said “Do what you know you should do.” When we do that, our lives are more grace-filled - our lives are fruitful. That is balance.