There are a few words that tend to get used a lot in the wellness industry. “Empowered” is one of those words. Where “power” is part of the word itself, it’s conjures up images of being your best self and being courageous. When we practice yoga, it’s a great feeling to have wash over you and when we teach yoga, it’s a great feeling for our students to connect to. We hope that through our words and actions as we teach, we will create an environment within which our students can grow, explore and feel a sense of empowerment.

Empowerment can mean:

Saying what’s on your mind and in your heart in your interactions with others

Living in a way consistent with your values even when there are distractions and temptations all around you

Letting your actions speak for themselves

Taking the time to be still and listen to the sensations in your body for the messages that your body is trying to send you

Making difficult decisions, even if they will cause you pain, if they are to help you move to a better place in your future

Acknowledging your strengths

Loving yourself, through the ups and downs

Keeping hurtful words towards others to yourself if their only purpose is to criticize or express your view of what you believe to be right

Trying something you’re afraid of, even if it’s out of character for you

Making the healthy choice, even when the unhealthy one is more appealing

Learning something new

Doing something new and loving it, regardless of how well you did

Doing something in nature

Dancing, singing or doing anything where you’re expressing yourself freely

Respecting yourself, always.

What does being empowered mean to you?