Forward Bending May Cure Insomnia

During the last few months I was brought to my knees by an acute episode of insomnia. It is interesting how our systems are so fragile that all kinds of things can come along and destabilize us, sometimes permanently.

We can't escape the lessons to be learned from physical suffering just because we may eat well, exercise regularly, and chant OM.

Anita Krizzan said, "When it hurts - observe. Life is trying to teach you something." This period of pain has been teaching me about humility and about readjusting my values back to selfless service, deepening my knowledge about yoga, exploring creativity, and trusting God to take care of me.

Forward bending is often associated with humility. Swami Satyananda Saraswati said, "An inability to bend forward may indicate a stiff, proud, or stubborn personality."  In my yoga classes, the month of May will be dedicated to forwarding bending asanas and the virtue of humility.

I wrote my first yoga poem, and I want to share with you.

 

Forward Bending May Cure Insomnia

First night of my insomnia,

I

Was

Pissed.

 

And even more pissed when

Hot flashes pinged me

All night long.

How dare she?

Body betraying me;

The crone

Petty like the maiden.

 

Four doctors, one therapist later. 

Official diagnosis:

Root chakra issues unaddressed

Forcing childhood traumas

Through thin skin of the aged.

 

And then I bend forward.

Bowing, allowing the vertebra some much needed space.

Soothing the nerves with humility.

Massaging the liver.

 

My ears close to ground now,

I can hear the river:

I have taken the responsibility for breathing you,

Won’t I always provide what you need?

 

 

Take care, rest well, and see you soon,

Monique

Close

Sign up for our Newsletter