You can explore Mountain Pose with me on the Yoga with Rachel YouTube channel!
In 2012, I embarked on my very first backpacking adventure across several European countries. The one place that I traveled to was Innsbruck, Austria. I recall being in awe at how picturesque this city was. Snow-capped mountains surrounded the city, and the water was crystal clear. It was truly breathtaking! I had a strong inclination to climb the mountain in order to view the city from a new perspective. So, that’s exactly what I did!
I experienced some powerful emotions at the top of the mountain. I can recall feeling strong, tall, powerful, bold, calm, confident, lively, at ease and safe. I found it interesting how a change in location, altitude and perspective could evoke these qualities and feelings.
I believe that the above-mentioned characteristics have been dormant for some time due to traumatic experiences and past hurts. I found it easier to remain small, quiet, passive and closed off in order to avoid further hurt. I carried this “barrier of protection” with me for most of my life.
I tried to hold on to how I felt at the top of the mountain. However, I was unable to do so. Old stories and negative samskara (mental impressions) quickly resurfaced.
Fast-forward to 2019. In my Yoga Teacher Training, we were instructed to stand up tall in front of our peers and say a simple phrase three times. The phrase was, “I have something to say.” Seems simple enough, right? Well, I instantly went into panic mode. I wanted to curl up in a ball. I wanted to remain small and quiet. I didn’t believe that I had the strength to do this.
As I stood up tall in my "mountain," I took in my surroundings. I knew that I was safe, as I saw my peers smiling at me. I felt my feet rooted firmly into the earth. I felt strong, stable, bold and powerful. Calm and ease washed over me as I took a deep breath in. I knew I was ready. I realized that I had what it took to say this phrase all along.
Saying this phrase invited me to let go of some old stories, habits, and that “barrier of protection.” This statement has helped me realize that I am worthy and valuable, and that my words and actions are powerful. Whenever I find myself veering off the road (in other words, drifting back to my old habits), I stand tall and exclaim, “I have something to say!” And I truly mean it!
I encourage you to try saying this phrase to a partner, friend, family member, pet or even to yourself (looking at yourself in the mirror). See what happens!
After all, YOU have something to say!