These past few weeks we have been flowing through the Koshas (the energetic layers of our being in yoga philosophy) – with a break for a Mother’s Day themed class.

Holidays can be tricky for yoga teachers to theme because we live by Ahimsa (Non-harming, the first of the Yamas), and the last thing we want to do is hurt someone’s feelings. 

The truth is, not everyone is a mother. Even if they long to be. Yes, we all have mothers, but some people have mothers who have passed, have strained relationships with their mothers (or children), or are not able to be with their mothers for other reasons on this very celebrated day.  Therefore, Mother’s Day can be a sensitive, emotional day for a lot of people.

But it doesn’t feel right not to acknowledge it because it is right there in our face.  On social media, in stores, events, it’s hard to avoid.  Even if it is – as some believe – a “Hallmark Holiday.”

In the United States and elsewhere, a Hallmark holiday is a holiday that is perceived to exist primarily for commercial purposes rather than to commemorate a traditionally or historically significant event. ~ Wikipedia

Here’s where I tie this all together:

In this week’s yoga classes we are journeying to our Mannomaya and Vijnanamaya koshas.  The mental layers of our bodies.  I like to combine and focus on these together to sort of compare and contrast the two.

You see, the Mannomaya kosha is the emotional brain.  The part of us that connects to the mental impressions, our experiences that have created stories (Samskaras) we tell ourselves over and over.  Such as what Mother’s Day means. 

But the Vijnanamaya kosha, the mental body that discerns the thoughts and emotions can be rational and understand that this is just one day.  One day that means many things for many cultures around the world.  For example,

In Indian philosophy and yoga traditions, the idea of “mother” expands into the Divine Feminine:

• Durga – strength and protection

• Lakshmi – abundance and nurturing

• Saraswati – wisdom and guidance

Honoring “mother” can also mean honoring Shakti (feminine energy).

• The phrase “Matru Devo Bhava” means: “Mother is like God”

• Respect for mothers is expressed daily—not just one day a year

• Touching a mother’s feet is a traditional sign of reverence 

So, if Mother’s Day brings complicated emotions for you, remember to use your discerning mental body to tell yourself a different story.  A true story of respect and reverence for the Divine Feminine Energy IN ALL WOMEN.