The book details the five love languages as
physical touch, words of affirmation, quality time, gifts and acts of
service. We can all speak these languages, it’s just that some are our
native languages. Typically, the way that you most comfortably show love
determines your love language. Most people have one or two that are
dominate. We can definitely choose to learn or practice the languages
that do not come easily.
It makes sense doesn’t it? Your sweetie
holds your hand (physical touch), trying to set a romantic mood, but
what would really turn you on is if he unloaded the dishwasher (acts of
service). Your sister sings your praises (words of affirmation), but
what you would really enjoy is day together getting pedicures (quality
time). These loved ones are all speaking love in one way or another, but
if it’s not your language, it might get lost in translation.
This concept hit home for me several years
ago when I first read the book. It helped me to understand my love
languages (acts of service and words of affirmation), what
I speak and what I hear most clearly and the love languages of my
friends and family. It helped me to see that even though my loved ones
weren’t speaking my language, they were expressing love in theirs. The
piles of presents for my kids from grandma at Christmas were not just an
exercise in retail excess, but each one was an sign of her love
language, gifts.
The concept rings true at the yoga studio, a
place bursting at the seams with love. I think that’s one of the
reasons we are a home away, there’s a lot of love here in a lot of
different languages. Every day, I see the different languages in action
between the teachers and students.
Physical Touch – a warm hug when arriving at the studio, confident touch when adjusting a pose or the loving touch of a savasana adjustment.
Words of Affirmation – encouraging direction during class, recommendation of your favorite teacher or acknowlegement of a well-planned sequence.
Quality Time
– arriving to class a few minutes early, being completely present
during class or staying after to talk about what you’ve discovered
during practice.
Gifts – delivering a tissue to an allergy afflicted yogi, the surprise of a perfectly warm chai tea latte or a discount on purchases.
Acts of Service – providing personal modifications, putting away the props for a fellow student or researching a personal challenge.
So, what’s your love language? There’s no
right or wrong answer. Take a minute to think about what fills you up
and warms your heart. But, also take some time to think about how you
can speak love to the people in your life more poignantly.
Enjoy the Journey!
Suzanne
