Why do we get frustrated? While it’s no secret that we all get frustrated (even yogis!), the circumstances leading us to our frustration may differ. Work? Love? Family? Whatever it is, it’s important to realize that we become frustrated anytime our expectations are not met. I have recently become frustrated because of events at work, events for which I’ve had expectations…not unrealistic expectations, but expectations that simply haven’t been met and may never be. So how do I come to terms with this?
Well, as a yoga teacher, I am forever returning to my teachings. One of the first books that led me to yoga was Eckhart Tolle’s “A New Earth” in which he says so eloquently:
Joy does not come from what you do, it flows into what you do and thus into this world from deep within you. The misperception that joy comes from what you do is normal, and it is also dangerous, because it creates the belief that joy is something that can be derived form something else, such as an activity or thing. You then look to the world to bring you joy, happiness. But it cannot do that. This is why many people live in constant frustration. The world is not giving them what they think they need.
Frustration will never go away unless we give it permission to leave us. It is US who keeps it around like a ball and chain. So, how do we do cut off frustration from our lives? Should we give up all of our expectations? Our dreams? No, I don’t think so. I believe that frustration comes into our lives to shift our energy in a different direction. How you react to your frustration is noticed by your coworkers, loved ones, and even strangers. Realize that frustration is like a tidal wave…the initial ripple that you set off will eventually grow stronger and stronger until you choose not to swim in that sea.
Try leaving frustration behind but keep your expectations of what you deserve. Know that they may be met now, but your shift of energy will take effect eventually. In the meantime, you can always practice lion pose or goddess pose to release a little of that frustration. I know it helps me every time.
Meditate with Maeve 