How to Handle Conflict Like a Yogi

I think it’s fair to say that we all hate conflict. Yet, it’s a part of life we all face at times. Some of us are better at avoiding it than others. When conflict arises—we don’t agree with our spouse or how our boss is treating us—we avoid it.

Sometimes conflict can be about the little things. But what I’m talking about here are the bigger things. Things like when you are really upset, frustrated, hurt or angry.

Usually in these situations, the first response is no response. We put up and shut up, as the saying goes. We keep our unhappiness to ourselves, and possibly gossip about the person we’re upset with. Or, we may even chide ourselves for feeling the way we do.

But as the conflict arises again and again, the hurt, frustration and anger accumulate inside.

What do to?

Thankfully the yoga teachings give us clear guidance and tools. In fact, it’s extensive. I’ll share with you a few key tips here.

Tip #1:

Don’t ignore yourself! Pay attention when you feel hurt, disappointed, angry, frustrated or annoyed with a person. Don’t just brush it under the carpet. What event triggered the feelings? Write it down. Allow yourself to own your feelings, no judgment. Resisting or denying them doesn’t make them go away. It only makes them grow bigger and stick around.

Tip #2:

Do a little self-reflection. Why is the event causing these feelings? Don’t censor. Are you upset because a boundary was crossed? Is there something you need to say or do?

Enjoying learning these tips?

If so, it may be time to consider enrolling in my Yoga Teacher Training Program. In it, you’ll learn mat skill secrets to advance your practice and much more. The next one starts July 11th and there are still some seats open.

Then let me know here how your practice is going!

Love and brilliance,

Laurel

 

 

 

 

 

“What lies behind us, and what lies before us are but small matters compared to what lies within us.”  –Ralph Waldo Emerson