The Turning Point

We’re on the cusp of the Solstice, a pivotal moment in the earth’s annual cycle. In the Northern Hemisphere, it marks the return of the light - a literal and symbolic turning point from darkness to illumination. 

In yoga, such turning points are sacred ground for insight and breakthrough.

Consider Arjuna’s predicament at the start of the Bhagavad Gita. He’s the greatest warrior of his time, standing on the brink of an epic battle. Looking out across the battlefield, he sees friends, teachers, and relatives positioned against him.

He is forced to choose between fighting or refusing to fight - each path laden with dire consequences. Paralyzed by fear, overwhelm, and confusion, he sinks into a profound crisis and lays down his weapon. "Tell me what to do," he pleads to Krishna.

It is precisely in this moment of utter vulnerability that Krishna begins to impart his teachings, and the timeless wisdom of the Bhagavad Gita unfolds.

In asking for divine assistance, Arjuna becomes open to understanding beyond his current perception, creating space for new understanding.

We all encounter similar moments when our carefully constructed narratives seem to crumble, when circumstances push us to our limits, leaving us raw and vulnerable, at a loss for how to make sense of things and move forward.

Often, when we let go of trying to figure things out from our limited perspective and invite our own inner wisdom to emerge, we become open to new ways of understanding and new pathways begin to emerge.

The moment of not-knowing is precisely when wisdom can enter, when new insight and clarity can arise.

Both characters—the struggling warrior and the voice of wisdom—live within us.

At this time when the earth's cycle turns toward the light, consider the situations in your own life that have you feeling cornered. Where have you reached the limits of your individual efforts?

Recognize these moments as invitations to turn inward. Invite your own inner wisdom to speak, and listen.