Thought Loops

Thinking loops:

One of the main goals of yoga is to establish a way of thinking which brings positive influence to our lives, and therefore to the lives of those around us. It is well understood that thinking tends to form into habits, and that these habits are reinforced over time. The more that we think in a certain way, the more we think that way! This is in fact impacting on our perceptions and therefore on the quality of our lives. In order to promote ways of thinking that are beneficial we have developed this simple 'thinking loop'.

1. Smile - This refers to the feeling of inside happiness more than the physical action.

2. Accept - This moment is as it is, and cannot be altered, come to terms with this.

3. Imagine - Picture how you can improve yourself, your thoughts and actions.

4. Resolve - Accepting that this moment is unchangeable, but recognising things that you can change, resolve to make those changes, and to achieve your image of a better you.

5. Try hard - Once you know the direction you are headed, and have resolved to achieve a better you, put that resolution to action, and do your best to turn your vision into a reality.

We refer to this as a loop, because once you reach step 5, go back again to step 1. Make this a part of your regular thinking, and witness the positive changes that it brings.

Smile - Accept - Imagine - Resolve - Try hard - Smile - Accept - Imagine - Resolve - Try hard - Smile - Accept - Imagine - Resolve - Try hard - etc...

It is worth noting that as you progress through the steps, you might notice that more and more time is required in order to fully justify moving to the next step. These steps are not necessarily linear either, it is a good idea to maintain an inward smile at all times! It is also of enormous benefit to maintain a feeling of acceptance, while also being open to new thoughts or experiences that might stimulate your imagination. The loops is intended to provide a framework around which you can take positive action to bring deeper happiness into your life.

It is also beneficial to break this loop down in shorter loops in order to reflect particular realities. For example, if you are not in a realistic position to act on a resolution, you might like to omit step 5. Likewise, if you cannot find the answer you need in order to progress to step 4, you might like to spend some time at step 3, and reflect on the choices you have. This omitting process has different values, for example, if you are feeling ill at ease with things and simply need some space in order to calm your mind, stay in step 1 or use a short loop, alternating between steps 1 and 2. Focussing on step 1 works as a kind of meditation, and is very calming.