Willpower

In yogic terms, the will is governed by the energy centre called ‘Manipura Chakra'. The element of this energy centre is Fire. It’s location is at the navel in the belly – hence the power behind our digestive processes is referred to as our ‘digestive fire’.  If this energy centre is weak, then we may struggle to digest our food well.
 
And if we don’t have much fire in our belly, we may lack a sense of personal power, identity, depth, and integrity – the ability to walk forward into life, taking actions and speaking words which are in alignment with our beliefs and values. We may favour instant gratification over working towards more substantial longer-term endeavours.

​I recently read a book by Piero Ferrucci entitled ‘Your Inner Will’. It’s an area of my life which required some attention. The reason, because I lacked this fire within – this power source. I was a bit flaky, lacked enthusiasm and struggled to hold commitments. I felt that I skirted around life rather than ploughing forward into the action. Plus my digestion could use some more fire.

I was also fearful of being vulnerable - truly being seen or heard - always trying my best to stay small. Apart from being a waste of a life, it feels limiting and unsatisfying to hide behind the curtain and not have centre stage in ones own life. Each person should be the star of their own show right??
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If you relate to any of this stuff then read this book...there is gold within it!!! But for now, here are 3 simple exercises to take away. Also, in relation to this blog, within the workshop on Sunday 13th May we'll be exploring stepping outside of our comfort zone and into the arena of the uncomfortable and sometimes scary 'risk zone' - the breeding ground for fulfillment, 'wholehearted living' and personal growth, where you and your will can have centre stage.

1. Your will is like a muscle...use it and it will grow stronger!!  Making small but decisive Yes’s and No’s with clarity, making commitments and taking small actions in FULL COLOUR rather than being vague about it. One foot in front of the other.
2. Repeat a positive affirmation 3 times. Do this daily, with intention, for 3 weeks. You can journal your way through and note changes in you. This is the one I use:  ​“I walk forward ALL of who I am into life and I do so with an open heart to the best of my ability.”
3. Sit quietly observing the flow of your natural breath without trying to change it for 2 minutes or so. Then bring to your mind a quality which you want to be infused with. Eg, Courage, confidence anything you like. Really feel the quality. When you feel its energy, feel it permeating through and out of your whole being. See it being carried forward into your day.