If you’ve spent any time on the mat, you’ve probably heard the phrase “everything is temporary.” It’s one of those quiet truths that yoga threads through every breath. Usually, we hear it in hard times — as comfort during a challenge, an injury, or a season of uncertainty. It’s a reminder that whatever you’re going through, it will pass.
But impermanence isn’t just about the tough moments. It applies equally to the beautiful ones — the joy, the laughter, the connection — the times that feel so perfect you want to freeze them forever. Remembering that those are temporary too can be bittersweet, but it’s also what makes them shine even brighter.
This past month has been such a powerful reminder of that truth for me. My sister, Deb, came over from Laos, and it felt like life was bursting with energy. We spent a week in Northumberland and completely surprised our parents at their campsite — they had absolutely no idea we were coming! The look of pure delight on their faces, the laughter that followed, and the feeling of us all being together again — it was just magic.
Back home, Deb and I carried that energy into the yoga cabin, where she led Yin yoga and sound healing classes alongside my flow classes. Having her here wasn’t just special because she’s my sister, but because she’s such an experienced yogi. As someone still in the early stages of my teaching journey, learning from her was just brilliant! Watching her teach with such calm and confidence was inspiring — and it sparked so many ideas about what we could create together in the future (if she ever comes back to the UK to live!)
And then came my dad’s 80th birthday weekend — another surprise! We invited all his mates to the pub, and watching him watching them trickle in one by one was priceless. The place was filled with laughter, stories, and a few emotional moments too. Seeing him surrounded by friends reminiscing about old times was a real reminder of how precious these shared moments are — and how fleeting. It was such an awesome day, one that will stay with me and my family for a long time.
But, as yoga teaches us, everything must flow onward. We left my parents on the Sunday, and Deb packed her bags on the Monday and headed back to Laos. Suddenly the house felt quieter, empty and sad. But then I reminded myself: this is exactly what yoga teaches. When we learn to accept that everything is temporary, we learn to truly be present. Knowing that the beautiful moments won’t last forever doesn’t make them sad — it makes them extra special.
So, don’t just lean on “everything is temporary” when life feels hard. Remember it when life feels wonderful, too. Cherish it. Breathe it in. Because if we spend too much time wishing something would last forever, we miss the chance to truly experience it while it’s here.
Michelle x
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