Cultivate 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?  It is easy to get out of balance with the busyness of our lives and so many things to do, pushing ourselves beyond what is good for our bodies and minds. We can get overtired. 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 brings 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. When we do that, our lives are more grace-filled and our lives are fruitful. We feel content and at peace. That is balance.