Non-judging

In the first week of my new course we will be exploring the attitude of non-judging through an integrated practice including breath, movement and meditation. Non-judging is one of seven attitudinal foundations (Kabat-Zinn, 2013) that we can intentionally cultivate on the mat to find greater ease and fulfilment in our everyday lives.

Judging, (ourselves, others and our experience), is a key characteristic of the mind, and plays an important role in keeping us safe (allowing us to rapidly evaluate new situations, for example). There is nothing inherently wrong with judgemental thoughts, but, as with all thinking, if we become too identified with our judgements, they can negatively impact the way we experience the world and the way we relate to ourselves and others.

So our aim this week will be to bring judging thoughts into our awareness; to see them for what they are (temporary, automatic and inherently subjective); and most importantly, not to judge the judging! In this way, we can begin to relate to our judgements, rather than from them. It is a profound shift in perspective.

Non-judging is a wonderful attitude to bring to our yoga practice because it allows us to move beyond an obsession with making shapes, and to prioritise our internal experience, which is where the real growth happens.

If you’d like to explore the attitudinal foundations further you can find more information about my new eight-week course here or get in touch with me directly.