What is Yoga

“A journey of 1000 miles begins with a single step.”

~ Lao Tzu

Have you ever felt overwhelmed with an asana or feel frustrated with your body or life? Heeding the wisdom of Lao Tzu, remember to start with a single step, a single breath. All great feats were accomplished breath-by-breath. One at a time. If a task seems daunting, stop and breathe: three deep abdominal breaths. And then begin, one step at a time.

Our Yoga practice is a wonderful time to practice staying with the journey breath-by-breath. As the second sutra of Pantanjali's Yoga Sutras states,

"Yoga is the ability to direct the mind exclusively toward an object and sustain that direction without any distractions." ~trans. TKV Desikachar

How do we do this? With the breath. When each movement flows with a mental and physical tying of motion and breath, it is easier to slip into a Yogic state of being. This state is one of being centered, balanced, accepting, and at peace.

Unless you are fully enlightened, it is a practice!!! So, when the mind drifts or we forget to breath, just get back on the horse -- so-to-speak. No judgement, no analyzing. Just return to the steady rhythm of breath and movement as one. This is Yoga.

Blessings,

Kris
http://www.totalhealthyoga.com/
http://www.totalhealthyogaclasses.blogspot.com/

Today is the first day of the rest of your life!