Mind the gap

“The more we witness our emotional reactions and understand how they work, the easier it is to refrain." Pema Chödrön. I often tell my students that “life shows up on the mat". I find this to be particularly true when we look at the difference between reaction versus refrain. First consider the definitions of both: React: to exert a reciprocal or countering force or influence that is associated with a negative energy. Respond: to apply an intention and respect; allowing space for positive momentum. Pema Chödrön's lecture entitled, The 4R’s,(Recognize, Refrain, Relax, Resolve), puts this in perspective for me, both on the mat and off. The act of responding requires one to look at the circumstance, identify the problem or situation, hear what is happening and reflect. That reflection can be for a moment, five seconds, one hour, two days or longer. The time frame doesn’t matter. What matters is that you stopped and put an effort to think and suspended judgment. It is a conscious act and shows that you are willing to listen or observe. This ‘gap’ between the circumstance and your behavior is what contributes to gaining a sense of control in your life. Next time you visit your mat why not practice truly listening and moving in an intelligent flow. It is only then that the answers appear - pausing, breathing and thus moving into ease