Today, I invite you to journey with me into the heart of the Bhagavad Gita, a scripture that has not only shaped my understanding of yoga but has also guided me through the most turbulent and triumphant times of my life. This ancient text, with its profound wisdom, has been offering insights that are as relevant now as they were thousands of years ago.
A Guide Through Life’s Battles
My first encounter with the Bhagavad Gita came at a pivotal moment—when I made the difficult decision to quit law school, a path that seemed predestined yet misaligned with my deepest passions. The Gita, with its narrative of Arjuna’s struggle on the battlefield, mirrored my internal battles. Like Arjuna, I faced doubts and fears about my path forward, about leaving a structured and expected life for one of uncertain and spiritual pursuit.
Embracing Dharma
The Gita taught me about ‘dharma’, or duty. It reminded me that my true calling was not just in what I did, but how I did it—with integrity, passion, and compassion. This lesson became the foundation of 11Exhale, where we don’t just teach yoga, we strive to live it, encouraging our community to find and follow their own ‘dharma’.
The Power of Detachment
One of the most challenging yet liberating teachings of the Gita is the principle of detachment—the idea of being involved in the world yet not attached to its outcomes. This teaching has guided me through personal losses, business failures, and the everyday highs and lows of life. Learning to detach from the results and focus on the action has enriched my practice and teaching of yoga, making each moment on the mat a practice in mindfulness and acceptance.
Living Yoga Beyond the Mat
The Gita asserts that yoga is skill in action. This philosophy extends beyond our physical practices—it’s about how we interact with the world, how we handle our responsibilities as leaders, parents, and citizens. It has inspired me to weave the principles of yoga into every aspect of my business, from ethical decision-making to fostering a supportive and nurturing work environment.
I share these reflections not just to recount my personal journey but to invite you to explore how the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita can illuminate your path. Whether you are a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, the Gita offers invaluable lessons in courage, duty, and the art of living harmoniously.
With love and light,
Julianne Arce
