Time to Grow, Again

Spring has sprung and mother’s day is here, which means that here in the midwest, growing season has begun. May to October are the precious few months in which we can garden most annual plants and vegetables and I’ve already begun.

When we look at nature, all growth is cyclical. Many plants only survive the warmer seasons, and even those that survive the winters, take a break from external growth during that time. We all watch as the trees shed to their bare minimum and go into rest mode until the next growing season begins. Even those pesky weeds that are masters in growth take a break during the winter months.

Somewhere along the line, we as humans, dropped the appreciation for cyclical growth, and opted to strive for linear growth instead. External growth in terms of building families, homes, industries and careers is part of the human experience and is certainly necessary. However the need for relentless, continuous growth, is simply not sustainable. Not for our own well being, for our society, and certainly not our planet.

There is a counter movement, including much of the yoga world, that touts the importance of resting and recharging. While this is also a necessary part of the cycle, the truth is, too much rest and no action, is also not sustainable.

Ayurveda teaches us to look to the seasons and nature to help guide us. What if we took these cues and opted for a cyclical growth model instead. Realizing that in order to reach a state of balance, we need both parts of the cycle. Most of us are likely more comfortable in one part of this cycle than the other, and I think that is sort of the point as well

We of course don’t have to follow the seasons exactly, but I personally find it useful to use them as a reminder. So if you are like me, and tend to find more comfort in the “rest” portion of this cycle, perhaps you plant something this spring, and as you watch it grow, let it be a visual reminder to get out there and do something new. And if you are more comfortable in the “growth” portion of this cycle, then I thank you for being a needed opposing force in my life. This is your season to do what you do best.

Happy growing everyone!

A giant thank you to all those who came to my Ayurveda retreat a couple weeks ago. We had an absolutely fantastic time! Stay tuned for upcoming dates for more events!