Discovering Your True Self Through the Yoga of Self-Portraiture.
When was the last time you paused to truly reflect on who you are? Not the roles you play, the expectations you fulfill, or the masks you wear, but your deepest, truest self. In the fast pace of life, it’s easy to lose sight of this essence, the part of you that yearns to be fully seen, heard, and loved.
Enter the Self-Portrait— an innovative and deeply personal approach to healing that combines the transformative tools of yoga with the art of self-discovery. Inspired by David Whyte’s poem Self Portrait, this journey asks “beautiful questions” about who you are, what you love and how you show up in the world. It invites you to create a visual or symbolic representation of your innermost self as you move through the layers of healing, growth, and integration.
What Is a Self-Portrait in the Context of Yoga?
In traditional art, a self-portrait is a depiction of the artist as they see themselves. In the yoga of self-portraiture, the “canvas” becomes your body, breeath, and spirit, illuminated by reflective practices, therapeutic movement, and meditative inquiry.
This isn’t about creating a perfect image—it’s about understanding your authentic self and expressing it in a way that feels true to you.
Your self-portrait might take the form of a symbolic drawing, a heartfelt journal entry, or even a mental image cultivated through meditation. It’s less about the final product and more about the process of uncovering your unique essence and embracing every part of yourself.
Why This Approach to Healing is So Powerful
The Self-Portrait process is more than self-reflection; it’s a transformational tool for healing. Here’s why:
It integrates Body, Mind, and Spirit
I can offer advanced tools- asana, breathwork, meditation and yoga therapy— that help you connect deeply with your body and mind. As you move, breathe, and sit with yourself, you begin to access hidden parts of your being, creating space for insight and healing.
It Bridges the Seen and Unseen
Just as yoga seeks to unite the physical and the subtle, the Self-Portrait bridges the external and internal aspects of yourself. You explore the visible parts of your life while giving attention to the unseen— your emotions, values and desires.
It Honors the Shadow
Healing isn’t just about embracing the light; it’s about integrating the shadow. The Self-Portrait invites you to confront the parts of yourself that you may have ignored or suppressed, offering them compassion and understanding.
It Creates a Tangible Anchor for Transformation
Whether through art, journaling, or visualization, your self-portrait becomes a touchstone—a reminder of who you are and the progress you’ve made. It serves as a source of inspiration and motivation as you continue to grow.
How Yoga Supports This Journey
The advanced and ancient tools of yoga provide the structure for this inner exploration. Here’s how:
Asana (Postures): Movement helps release stuck energy and unlock emotions stored in the body. Specific poses can be tailored to support emotional balance and clarity.
Pranayama (Breathwork): Conscious breathing soothes the nervous sytem, creates focus and opens the gateway to deeper self-awareness.
Meditation: Guided meditations allow you to connect with your inner voice, visualize your true self, and hold space for healing.
Yoga Therapy: This personalized approach addresses your unique physical and emotional needs on a deeper and more educated level, empowering you to heal in a holistic way.
Contact me TODAY and let’s jump in to a discovery call to discuss how this approach can benefit you!
