In Yoga and Ayurveda, all healing, personal growth and transformation involve the application of opposites. If we are too sedentary, we need to get up and get going. If we are always going, we need slow down and relax. If we are too heavy, we need to eat less. If we are too thin, we need to boost our intake. If we talk all the time, it would likely be helpful to practice some silence. If we are too silent and withdrawn, more self-expression would be helpful.

Applying the power of opposites moves us towards homeostasis, which is the creation of stable equilibrium between interdependent elements. In other words, through this process we create harmony, healing and wholeness. It is like putting equal weight on both sides of a fulcrum so that it comes into balance, just as we did on the seesaw as children. There will always be fluctuations, a gentle wave of ups and downs in the seesaw of our lives, but if too much weight is placed on one side – as we all know – we get stuck.

I invite you to notice any areas of your life where there is imbalance. Choose one, and gently apply the power of opposites. Go slowly and have no hurry. In time, with consistent application, you will experience a healing, an empowerment, a return to balance and stability.