Chapter 1: The Importance of Routines

In our lives, we often establish certain activities as routines—exercising, reading, writing, resting on specific days, or even working. We become so attached to these routines that the mere thought of disrupting them can be quite unsettling. However, life is unpredictable, and circumstances can change. Let’s delve into our ability to adapt to these shifts and maintain flexibility in our lives!

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Chapter 2: Understanding the Earth Element

For a long time, I had little interest in the abstract or concrete aspects represented by the earth element. To me, earth was simply dirt. However, as my fascination with yoga and various teachings grew, I began to explore the world of elements. Today, we will focus on earth, though perhaps we will discuss all abstract elements one day.

The earth embodies the most tangible aspect of existence, beautifully illustrated by our own bodies. Our presence in this life is tied to our physical form. In Islam, there’s a belief that we originate from the earth. Beyond this, earth is a captivating realm that nourishes and sustains many living beings.

The connections the earth element has with abstract concepts are numerous. I often mention our roots—family ties—which relate to the earth. Commitment, attachment, continuity, determination, routines, stability, belonging, and grounding all stem from earth. Feelings like jealousy, possessiveness, fear, insecurity, worthlessness, and hopelessness are also expressions of this element.

Every aspect of our inner fire or strength has a foundation in the earth. For example, on the first day we engage in sports, our inner fire is alive, but by the 40th day of consistent practice, we find ourselves rooted in the earth. In everything we make a routine, we engage with this element. Conversely, when we struggle to establish a routine, we are still dealing with issues related to the earth!

Relationships mirror this dynamic as well. Let’s remember the essence of our connections. There is indeed vitality, which emanates from fire. Our relationships begin with this fiery element. Sometimes, these connections last long enough that they can be rooted in earth. A sense of belonging, attachment, and continuity develops, leading both parties to become grounded in the relationship. Well-rooted relationships transition to the air element, where they dance in harmony. Ultimately, they may evolve into the water element, revealing the wisdom and depth of the connection.

However, some relationships are fleeting and confusing. In the initial spark of love, we might get lost in the fire and then it fades. In the presence of earth, love cannot flourish. Earth only makes room for love.

Chapter 3: My Journey in Yoga

From an early age, I've embodied the qualities of the water element, constantly seeking depth and meaning. My emotions are an indispensable part of me. Over time, I discovered that I also significantly possess and apply the characteristics of the earth element.

During my first year of yoga, I practiced almost daily for 10 months, accumulating about 300 days of consistent practice. Some days, I would practice for 30 minutes, while other days, I could spend 5 hours on the mat. Rather than finding it burdensome, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, despite the challenges and falls. This indicates that commitment comes easily to me. In my relationships, the shortest one lasted 10 months, even in my youth. When you establish such deep roots in a relationship, it becomes difficult to let go or forget. And that’s exactly what happens! With strong roots, moving on becomes a challenging endeavor for me.

Naturally, for someone who has developed such attachment and belonging, any disruption to that routine is quite unsettling. After doing the same thing for 300 days, when conditions change on day 301, the need to adapt can feel foreign. My yoga instructor once advised me, “When conditions don’t suit you, adapt to the conditions. Earth can adjust to its circumstances.”

Chapter 4: The Challenge of Flexibility

Could the issue for those who complain about a lack of continuity stem from their difficulty in adapting?

In my view, yes! We are often waiting for perfection. The existing conditions might not be to our liking either.

For example, in our journey of learning a new language, we may set a goal to practice for hours every day. However, if one day we can only manage 15 minutes, or we need to take a break, or we find ourselves in a restrictive environment, it can dampen our enthusiasm and disrupt our continuity.

Setting realistic goals is fundamentally about cultivating flexibility in life!

If a friend you haven’t seen in years invites you to meet on Sunday, yet Sunday is your designated rest day, what will you do? Will you miss the chance to see someone you haven’t met in ages? You might decide, “I’ll prioritize my rest on Sundays, but I’ll see my friend this time.” You could think, “I’ll rest on Monday instead after this meeting,” thus allowing for some fluidity in your routine.

I maintain a routine of physical activity six days a week, but I’m also adaptable to changing circumstances. The first thought might be rigid, while the second allows for flexibility and adaptation.

For instance, we can reduce our workload, take breaks, or make alterations as needed.

Chapter 5: The Power of Self-Compassion

A classmate of mine, who was a caregiver at the hospital, found yoga beneficial for her body and practiced in her hospital room.

Note: It was perfectly fine if she didn’t practice. Her ability to remain peaceful without practicing is also a form of flexibility. She strives to maintain her routine despite discomfort, embodying the essence of adapting to conditions.

Have you noticed that this topic also touches on self-compassion? Blaming ourselves, feeling incompetent, carrying burdens, fixating on problems, and ruining our day is a choice. Flexibility and understanding are alternative choices. Where there is flexibility, there is always acceptance and understanding.

The more we can adapt to life, the more at ease we feel. Trees are among the most resilient entities on Earth. Their ability to withstand wind and storms lies in their strong roots and flexible branches. The branches sway with the wind, adapting to the conditions. Imagine if trees broke and fell in every gust of wind.

We are the same. We might work less one day, take breaks for several days, or make changes. I always say, “What happens today is sufficient!”

The same applies to our relationships. It is normal to show understanding to a partner or friend going through a tough time and to adapt accordingly. How many of us have distanced ourselves in such situations? We’ve adjusted our behavior and made an effort to accommodate.

Stop being hard on yourself. Allow yourself to be flexible. It seems your body, mind, or spirit needs this right now. You don’t deserve to be crushed by your expectations. What is, is enough. Let today be like this! Tomorrow you can reassess.

Furthermore, today is August 30th, and I wish you a blessed holiday! 🎉