The rebellious act of appreciative joy

This month's theme was sparked by a fellow teacher whose work I deeply admire. Drawing from Buddhist philosophy, she introduced me to a concept that resonated profoundly: Mudita.

What is Mudita?

Mudita is a Sanskrit and Pali word that means altruistic, empathetic, and appreciative joy. It's a Buddhist practice that involves feeling genuine joy for another person's good fortune, luck, or accomplishments. But beyond that, it's about cultivating an ability to notice and appreciate the small, beautiful moments in life, especially during challenging times.

The Importance of Joy in Difficult Times

In a world that can sometimes feel heavy, it might seem frivolous to pause and notice the flowers blooming or savour a cup of coffee. However, I've come to believe that our ability to acknowledge both the challenges and the joys in life isn't just nice—it's necessary.

As a natural optimist, I'll admit I'm drawn to concepts like Mudita. My husband often tells me I'm being unrealistic, and sometimes he finds it frustrating when I want to focus on the positive while he needs someone to recognize the tough stuff. But this element of our relationship has taught me a valuable lesson: it's about balance.

Being optimistic doesn't mean ignoring risks, sorrows, or harsh realities. Instead, it's about holding both the good and the bad together. The easy and the tough, the sweet and the sour—they don't cancel each other out. They're more like a duet, a "yes, and" rather than an "either/or."

I try to consciously choose where to place my gaze, while still acknowledging the full spectrum of experiences. I might savor the warmth of sunlight on my face, even on a day filled with challenges. The comforting smell of my children's hair brings me joy, even as I navigate the stresses of parenting. I smile at the endearing, floppy gait of my dog as he runs across the field, while also being aware that he may come back covered in deer poo! The rich taste of coffee as I drive to work provides a moment of pleasure, balanced with an awareness of the day's demands ahead.

In essence, I strive to be appreciative of joy, while remaining (in the most part!) grounded in reality.

Bringing Mudita to Our Yoga Practice

Next time you come to your yoga practice, I invite you to find this balance within your body. When you notice tension or challenge in a pose, can you also—without denying that difficulty—find something to appreciate?

Perhaps you'll focus on the steady rhythm of your breath, even as you struggle with a pose. You might notice an area of ease elsewhere in your body, coexisting with areas of tension. There could be a moment of appreciation for how your body moves and adapts, while still acknowledging its limitations. Or maybe you'll feel a sense of gratitude for simply being on your mat, despite the challenges that may have made it difficult to get there.

Remember, noticing the good doesn't negate the challenging aspects of life or practice. Instead, it provides balance, resilience, and a fuller, richer experience of the present moment. Good and bad, easy and tough, sweet and sour—they're all part of the complex tapestry of our lives and our yoga practice.