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Mindfulness off the Mat list)
At the risk of putting forth what sounds like the psychobabble ramblings
of an artiste, I can recall those very rare, almost surreal, moments
in which all elements of my dance performance “clicked.” I was fully on my
game, as they say: 100% engaged in the present, lost track of time, had no
shortage of energy, felt a connection with the audience, and moved
flawlessly, almost effortlessly, as though I was being animated not by
muscle, but by the music itself as it vibrated through my veins. During
these moments, I felt a very pure emotion with my performance piece—which,
surprise, surprise, tended to focus on a nature-oriented theme, and I was so
“into” the dance, it almost felt as though I was watching a movie of myself.
Talk about a high! If this is what the concept of “transcending” is all
about, sign me up for more! Unfortunately, a heightened state of this
extreme caliber seems a rare occurrence; I would say that in all of my
performance career, it only happened a mere handful of times—less than 1% of
my stage appearances. Nonetheless, it gave me enough of a glimpse that I now
recognize when I’m hovering within that general state of mind/body
synchronicity. Fortunately, I need not be performing to tap that
hyper-experience. Music, for example, is one way to put me in that state;
when I get on a particular “kick” (Leo Kottke, anyone?) I can be downright
scary in the near-altered consciousness that takes over!
Even more interesting is the prevalence of this state in my fitness
training, where I channel it as a conduit to maximize the effectiveness—both
mentally and physically—of the activity at-hand. This strategy is sometimes
nicknamed the “Athlete’s Zone,” though you need not be an athlete to benefit
from it. I suppose it’s related to the oft-revered Runner’s High, but this
goes beyond the mere physical “feel-good” response by the body when exposed
to vigorous exercise. It’s actually more an extension of…..you guessed it,
yoga! When you set your sights on concentrating fully during a yoga session,
you’re conditioning your mindset in such a way that other activities may be
approached in a similar fashion. For example, a one-hour brisk walk becomes
manageable, and intensely gratifying, if you keep your attention riveted on
just the present moment. When you stop thinking, “Oh, gosh, I still have a
whole 53 minutes to go,” and instead focus on your breath, on the exact
movement of each foot as it strikes the ground, the power of your low back
as it supports you in a tall, lifted, neutral posture, and take in your
surroundings--pretty blue sky, invigorating sunlight, the kaleidoscope-like
patterns seen as you look up through a tree--with the innocent observation
of a child, you will gradually become acquainted with your own athletic
zone, bringing forth a welcome sense of attunement and a very welcome
reprieve from stress. As a bonus, you will also see better results for your
efforts! Õ
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