The last of the Yamas is aparigraha, which is non-attachment or non-possessiveness. It’s been a difficult start to the year for many of us yearning for a return to normality, desiring a change of scenery, needing to connect with people, desiring change.

When we are challenged, when we are under stress, what behaviours do we do we lean on? Where we've got our little treats, our guilty pleasures, maybe our vices - when do they become habits and when do they perhaps tip into something a bit more concerning?

One thing I’ve realised about myself is that away from the mat, or outside mindfulness practice, I’m not always giving the task at hand my full attention - both stealing from myself and stealing from others.

Truthfulness should be kind, and to not be truthful is hurtful either to yourself or others.

The first of the yamas is ahimsa – non-violence or kindness in thoughts words and actions. It’s rooted in love and underpins all of the Yama and Niyama.

What a difference a fortnight makes. I feel more focussed, calmer, happier, more in control.

Last week I was struggling a lot with a number of things that affected my confidence in myself. I’ve been reflecting on what this means in the context of yoga.

A lot of the year I feel like I live within a canopy of green, but in autumn it becomes a riot of colour over the days and weeks.

I’ve spent a lot of this last week feeling out of my comfort zone - I’m trying to balance my energy and find ways to manage.

Yoga has led to new opportunities and given me the confidence to do things I wouldn’t have before.