I have been practicing yoga for over 20 years now. Hard to believe it has been that long. I remember the early days - taking yoga classes at a community college in a gym, surrounded by weight-lifting equipment. It smelled weird, and classes did not incorporate many spiritual or philosophical aspects. That was my introduction to the world of yoga. I was stiff in my body and could not reach my toes. I felt that I was doomed.
Eventually, things did get better and then much better from that environment. I ended up with a fantastic teacher who was more than a yoga teacher; she was a spiritual and somatic guide. With her help, I discovered that I indeed did love yoga and found it was often better than sex. I loved the high-energy, dynamic Vinyasa classes as well as the super mellow, barely moving restorative Yin yoga. I got to practice with some super-talented teachers and practitioners. The wisdom that they have shared is forever embodied in me. The practice of yoga has fundamentally changed my life and my relationship with my own body and mind.
What is yoga? To me, it is all about what the Sanskrit word means - UNION. Through the practice of yoga, I found the connection that I was seeking. The connection with myself, the connection with higher power, and the connection with the world around me. I discovered that the ability to touch my toes was not the goal of yoga. Even though I can touch my toes now, it really is not the point. The point is the relationship. The harmony within oneself and with the surrounding world. The inner peace and resilience. The attitude, the perception, the listening.
I offer gratitude to all who have contributed and continue to contribute to my journey of self-discovery through the practice of yoga! After 20 years, there is still so much to discover, and every opportunity I get to be on my mat, I look forward to connecting deeper with myself and the universe around me.
