Saturday, April 07, 2012

Pink Moon

Yoga has been a part of my life for over 25 years. I have been a devoted practionier, but it has waxed and waned like the moon. When I'm on, and fully aware of my practice, you can tell. My skin glows. My eyes and hair are bright. I make healthier choices. My spiritual practices are blossoming and deepening more and more. I look, feel and act better over all.
When I'm not so on, things backslide. I'm not eating well, or moving more, which in turn leads to other negative choices in my life. I don't sleep well. I am out of balance, and as a result, things kick into a downward spiral.
I am fortunate that I can recognize this pattern, and stop it.
Yoga has gifted me an awareness of my body. I recognize when something is out of alignment. Its my choice to do anything about it.
Yoga has gifted me compassion for others. There is a bonding that happens when you are in class, all moving and breathing as one. When I practice alone, it allows me to connect to my body and my environment. I want to recycle and compost. I want to be nice to others because I've got that joy, joy, joy down in my heart.
Yoga has taught me dedication and persistence. I have practiced for 25 years, and I still can't get into certain asanas. Maybe I never will, but that doesn't stop me from trying.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=loszrEZvS_k&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Through the beauty of routine, I have found comfort. The world outside may be storming, but when I go to the mat, I have peace. The 20 minutes a day I practice gives me the peace and strength to be able to conquer the world.

Yoga has reinforced finding the sacred all around me. That is the definition of namaste: the light in me salutes the light in you.
Brother Lawrence, who found the glory of God in peeling potatoes in his 17th century monastery kitchen, is quoted as saying
“We must do our business faithfully, without trouble or disquiet, recalling our mind to God mildly, and with tranquility, as often as we find it wandering from him"

Maybe he was a closet yogi....


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyoX_xj9hXA&feature=youtube_gdata_player

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