As we move into November, the season of change is all around us.
The shift in colours of our landscapes, the length of our days, and a crisp chill fills the air. It’s a reminder that life, like nature, is in a constant state of flux. The Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius once said, “Remember that to change your mind and to follow someone’s correction are consistent with free will. For the action is yours alone, to fulfill its purpose in keeping with your impulse and judgment and yes, with your intelligence.” His words reflect the importance of adaptability — a principle that mirrors the very essence of yoga and the philosophy of personal growth.
In this transitional month, we can learn valuable lessons from both nature and the wisdom of Aurelius. November represents the in-between, a time where autumn fades into winter, much like how we as individuals often face moments of transition and uncertainty. To navigate such changes, we must remember that it is not only okay to shift and adapt, but that doing so is a profound strength.
Yoga, as a practice, perfectly embodies this idea of change and flexibility. On the mat, we learn how to balance strength with suppleness, stability with fluidity. In a yoga pose, we may hold a position that challenges us to be both strong and soft at the same time — we ground through our feet while extending our arms to the sky, or we hold a powerful stance while maintaining a calm, steady breath. This harmonious interplay between strength and flexibility is what allows us to be resilient, both physically and mentally.
November is a time when we can reflect on how adaptable we are to the shifting seasons of life. New circumstances may arise, just as the weather changes with each passing day. If we can’t bend with these changes, we may feel stuck or overwhelmed. But if we allow ourselves to flow with the current, rather than fight against it, we become stronger and more resilient in the process.
This adaptability is a great strength we can embody.
