Creating Space

Whether you quote the Buddha,“You only lose what you cling to” or 38 Special, “Just hold on loosely but don't let go, if you cling too tightly, you're gonna lose control” the message is the same: Create space.

We all need some space to breathe in. In yoga, we talk about Aparigraha (non-hoarding). This too refers to making space. Do you have space in your life for the most important things like friends, family and fun? When was the last time you sent a thank you note or spent some lazy afternoon time with a book or a friend? How can you make more time for these things?

You guessed it— create space! Create a new filter through which you run your decisions. Does this create space in my life, or does it add responsibility I don’t want, or commitments I dread, or more clothes to wash, or more items to dust?

Here are a few space-creating ideas to help jumpstart you on a path to stress-free living:

• Simplify. Get real. Get rid of stuff you don’t need. A cluttered house is draining. A chaotic desk is confusing.

• Label a box “Aparigraha” and put it by your front door. Get rid of two items each week. Give it to an organization that will find it a new loving home.

• Go to yoga. Quiet your mind and straighten your spine.

• Spend a few minutes each day de-cluttering your desk.

None of these things need to happen overnight. It’s all practice. Just like life, it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing proposition. Do the best you can today. Just knowing where you’re headed is relief.

Cheers to space!