Hello March 2026

After reading last month’s post, you might have come away with the idea that yoga is primarily about self-expression. However, practice of the attitudes of yoga leads to deeper self-knowledge through attentive awareness. In order to truly pay attention, you must become quiet and listen. Seeing that awareness out in the world brings me joy!

Last week, The Lead Listening Society at St. Ignatius College Prep inducted its newest members: students who also published a book titled Talk Less, Listen More about how practicing listening shaped their lives. As Dr. Angela Swain said in her keynote speech at the ceremony, “listening breaks the cycle of frustration and harm that arises from not being heard and becomes transformative.” Expression without reception blocks communication, whereas receptivity opens dialogue.

We recognize the lack of receptivity immediately: eyes wander; bodies tense. You may have experienced this lack of reception when someone with whom you’re speaking isn’t really listening and you eventually stop talking. On the mat, a similar principle applies. The first time you try a new pose, your mind must be open to the possibility of that position in order for your body to safely attempt it. If done merely physically by pushing into it, you risk injury. If done merely through will, you could also hurt yourself. Consequently, you must integrate mind and body to be truly receptive. Similarly, listening isn’t only an auditory practice. In order to truly listen, you must be fully present.

Whether in interaction with others or in quiet reflection with yourself, being receptive allows you to engage in a manner that transforms rather than merely performs. Congratulations to the students who have discovered just how revolutionary listening can be.