While in my restorative yoga class these words of enlightenment entered by mind: " I am worthy. I am enough."

As I focused on these phrases throughout my practice, I realized how easy it is for me to forget these simple truths, as well as how much easier it is for me to deny them. As I let the words resonate within me, I found myself at the crux of sadness and joy. The sadness arising from the realization that my quest for perfection subconsciously caused me to not see myself as being worthy of love or success. The joy arising from the realization that I could break free of my own mental imprisonment at any time, if I so choose. 

I have heard it said that there is freedom in the truth. Lauren Hill's Unplugged album is a testament to the exploration of this idea. Buddhist monk, Thich Naht Hahn has based the entire body of his teachings on the discovery of one's inner truth. As class wrapped up and I arose from savasana (corpse pose, often called the most important pose in yoga because engaging in it intelligently informs the body of neuromuscular changes, allowing us to fundamentally change the structure of who we are) I felt energized with a renewed sense of empowerment. The gained insight of my issues with perfection and self-denial allowed me to see that I was inflicting pain upon myself and that I needed to begin to take steps to reverse this pattern.
 
Since this epiphany a few weeks ago, I am consciously more gentle on myself. I make an effort to engage in positive thoughts and practices. I also take more time to engage in gratitude for what is good within my life- family, friends, certain opportunities-  verses all I do not have or just simply desire. Overall, I have to say that this experience has been uplifting thus far and I find more contentment in the days that pass.