My yoga journey began in early 2019,
When I signed up for a semester of yoga classes.
I'd taken yoga classes in the past,
But I was determined to be dedicated this time because I wanted to reduce stress and invite calmness into my life.
I was able to achieve those things almost immediately.
My co-workers and those around me noticed that I was very peaceful and happy after each class.
As great as that was,
I was looking for more than just a one-day fix.
I wanted a lifestyle change.
The more I studied yoga and learned ways to take my practice off the mat,
It slowly became clear to me how this is done.
Many people view yoga as simply an exercise for the body.
A very long time ago,
I was one of them.
When I started my yoga journey,
I was amazed by how quickly I strengthened.
But linked to the physical strengthening was increased mental sharpness,
A keener discernment.
I was so amazed by how my body was transforming,
And that realization fueled my mental strength.
That realization fueled my overall confidence and mental well-being.
While I constantly strive to be a better yogi and deepen many poses,
I have learned that getting there slowly is okay,
And understanding and respecting my body is essential.
I didn't become anything that I am overnight,
And the same applies to yoga.
Compassion for yourself gives way to being able to show compassion to others.
Living a yoga lifestyle is actually a gift to those around us.
When we fly commercially and are given instructions on what to do in case of an emergency,
The flight attendant tells us to put the oxygen mask on ourselves before assisting anyone else.
Personally,
I'm a big believer in karma yoga.
When I do good to others,
I usually receive the same in return.
I have no expectation that I will receive goodness in return,
And it's certainly not a condition that I place on my actions.
If nothing else,
Doing the right thing simply feels right.
In my opinion,
That is the very essence of living yogically,
Doing proper service to ourselves so that we are capable of serving and helping others.
So here is what living a yoga life has meant to me.
Always choosing peace and kindness.
Avoiding negative energies and gravitating to positive energies.
Seeking goodness in everything.
Respecting my body.
Respecting others and myself.
Respecting nature and the planet.
Deepening my awareness of my connection to the universe.
Constantly looking inward.
Paying more attention to the present than the past or the future.
And practicing gratitude.
Is any of this easy?
No.
But walking this path is certainly rewarding,
And I want to thank you for exploring this path with me today.
Together we have done some strengthening and stretching off the mat,
And I'm grateful for the time that we spent together.
With peace,
Love,
And gratitude.
Namaste.
