Control the Controllables in Uncertain Times: Inner Peace Through Yoga
As we march along on the journey of life, it is normal to feel some uncertainty or anxiety about the future, but lately, it just feels like we are watching civilization crumble in real time. Crumble may be too gentle a word for the chaos that has been unfolding in the dumpster fire we find ourselves in. At least we have internet memes.
There is a lot happening in the world that can feel overwhelming. Uncertainty, conflict, and fear are very real, and it’s natural to feel unsettled when we take it all in. In times like these, the yogic teachings offer something both grounding and practical: a reminder to return to what is within our control, and loosen our grip on what we cannot.
The Power of the Controllables
There is only so much we can influence. We can’t control what life brings us. We can’t control how others behave, how they treat us, or what unfolds on the global stage.
But we can control how we respond.
We can choose how we meet each moment. We can choose how we spend our time, and who we spend it with.
We can choose to dwell in our fear, or we can choose to invest our energy in things that bring us joy, calm, or excitement.
We can drown in our emotions, or find ways to make a positive contribution in our community.
We can choose to be victims of circumstance, or we can choose to be empowered.
This shift may seem small, but it’s transformative. Because when we begin to gain mastery over ourselves, we begin to experience real peace, as a lived reality.
Why Inner Peace Matters
Well there is the obvious reason: we want to feel happy, and a sense of peace is very helpful for that. But the deeper truth is, outward peace always begins within.
When our internal systems are balanced, we are better equipped to handle stress, uncertainty, and change without becoming overwhelmed or reactive.
In other words, when our system is working optimally, life doesn’t knock us off center quite so easily, and we can remain in a peaceful state of awareness regardless of external circumstances.
Every Time We Come to the Mat
Each time we step onto the mat, we are making a quiet but powerful commitment to cultivate peace within ourselves. And that inner work matters more than we sometimes realize. Change yourself, and the world around you changes.
When we regulate our own nervous system, we bring more calm into our relationships. When we act from clarity rather than fear, we create safer, more compassionate communities. Inner peace ripples outward.
At times, the idea of “peace on earth” can feel distant or unrealistic. But every great spiritual teacher points to the same truth: peace in the world begins with peace in your own heart.
When we strengthen our inner foundation, we can navigate challenging times with grace. When we understand the reality of what we CAN influence, we begin to create harmony not just within ourselves, but all around us.
Peace is not a passive state, but an action. It is practiced, one breath, one choice, one moment at a time.
Sat Nam
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” – Mahatma Gandhi
About the Author
Lisa Chancellor (Devi Seetal) is a Kundalini yoga teacher at Asana Yoga & Ayurveda and artist at in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Her teaching blends grounded yogic philosophy with practical tools for nervous system regulation and inner steadiness.
If you’re feeling the weight of the world and need a container of support, come practice with us. Explore our upcoming classes at Asana or go even deeper with us for yoga teacher training starting February 20, 2026.
