On and off the mat

My journey of yoga is a journey of self awakening.  Like a lotus flower, I unfold layer after layer, revealing my true Self. Moving through these layers brings up all that I must let go of: anger, fear, self-doubt, expectation, the need for approval, attachment to an outcome. Slowly I unhinge these parts of my Self and create space for joy, courage, self-love, flexibility, and openness. Each day I come on to the mat and honor my Highest Self. I gain not only physical healing, but deep rooted wisdom from within myself surfaces.  I celebrate in these breakthroughs by sharing them with you.

Yoga teaches us to breathe.  We remember to come back to our breath whenever we feel tight, uncomfortable and even the beginning sensations of pain.  

Yoga teaches us to pay attention to the details. Bringing awareness to all parts of the body, the breath and how we feel in each part of each posture. 

Yoga teaches us to embrace where we are in the present moment.  Letting go of what our practice felt like and looked like yesterday, we allow ourselves to go where we can today. 

Yoga cultivates self-compassion. We learn that feelings of frustration and anger cause tightness, but with a sense of calm acceptance we move deeper into postures.  

Yoga reminds us of the power we have over our minds.  By coming back to conscious breath, we control how our body responds in both times of struggle and times of relaxation.

Yoga nurtures balance. Our bodies strive to come into equilibrium, our minds yearn for stillness, and our Spirits seek cultivation. 

Yoga teaches us that we set our own limits and therefore we have the power to become limitless. Our practice only improves when we have the courage to persevere through the struggle. 

By utilizing the most magnificent instrument we are given, yoga isn't something we do yoga is something we cultivate. I realize, there is no end point to my practice, no finished product to seek.  Instead, each breakthrough just another step along my journey.  Each mastered posture only leads to a new challenge. 

On and off the mat the lessons of yoga echo into all aspects of my journey. 

Namaste