The way we move, reflects the way we think
The way we think, reflects the way we live
The way we live reflects the world we create.

~Cameron Shayne, founder of budokon

This past weekend, I had the distinct pleasure of taking part in a budokon class, taught by Mimi Rieger. She began her class by reminding us the credo of budokon's founder, Cameron Shayne.

As she repeated his words, stated above, I began to consider its significance . . .

As a counselor, I’ve always been more focused on the way people think. This traditional emphasis is based on the premise that a change in action is triggered or at least, preceded, by a change in cognition or belief system.

Unfortunately, reshaping ones thought patterns – especially those that have taken years to solidify, can often take equal amount in years to dismantle. Often, with our behavior dangling in its shadow.

But I got to thinking . . . what if the opposite could occur?

What if we simply changed the way we move, paying no mind (so to speak) to what we thought first?

For my answer – as always – I need to look no further than my yoga mat.

According to Patanjali, the practice of yoga ultimately leads to controlling the mind, citta vrtti nirodhah.   A daily asana practice makes the body strong and healthy – and once this is achieved, the mind can then be steady and controlled.

Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (Ashtanga Yoga) has always taught that true change begins by altering our behavior - and then work in.  We must simply “correct our external practices” first, deeper transformation will follow.

Translation – if you behave different - you might think different.

That would mean doing something you were scared to do - before you conquered the fear.
Or loving someone with complete abandon, despite feeling unloveable yourself.
Or being bold enough to attempt greatness - while still battling the doubt.