An expression as simple as spreading toes and wiggling them around with excitement + aliveness can be the embodiment of a transitional point in life. I remember the first time as an adult I realized I could stretch my toes wide apart – it was a year or so after starting yoga asana. I felt so empowered by this basic physical expression of spreading my toes! This is just a small example of the awe and joy that I find in my physical practice that keeps me stepping forward toward the deep exploration of Yoga. In this yoga therapy program, I have experienced so much more depth and joy far beyond this physical plane! Today my joy is less distal and more proximal, truly from my heart. I never thought I would have so much excitement about the subtleness and expansiveness of my diaphragm in the center of my body every time I breathe. I am so grateful for this big shift in perspective from being in a body to thriving in a body!
My current relationship to yoga therapy revolves around these guiding ways:
Embody to Expression – Physical embodiment practice was my entry point into the study of Yoga. I now sense into the subtle layers of mind, body and breath, and I am more able to be fully with the present moment. I have more discernment and awareness around ‘old’ information that my body is holding. I am skillful at finding ways of releasing and expressing myself.
Bridge to Connection – The holistic and accessible tools I share are a bridge to deeper connection with self and others. I offer these tools as an educator for others, and I serve as a point on their own path to self-realization. Anchored on two sides, a bridge brings together two points and unifies them at another destination in time and space. I aim to regerate and return the favor of the bridges that came to support me.
Inquiry to Awareness – I am more apt to ask questions now more than ever! Curiosity expands my awareness and keeps me moving toward new horizons. When I approach life with inquiry, I see many paths and know that consistent practice is the only way. Through the study and practice of Yoga, I have learned tools to bring myself closer to living in alignment with the natural fluctuations of the material aspects of this world.
As For Our Senses – If we must move beyond this world’s presentation of duality and unify our consciousness, then I have learned that in this life I am much more and no less than my senses. Mastering my senses is the way I must go in order to live my dharma… As likened from the Bhagavad Gita, “Those that follow the path of service work with body senses and mind for the sake of self purification.“ This path lets me live and grow in the pure light of heart-centered resilience. And having walked on this path, I must lead others toward sustained personal and collective health and wisdom.
SOMALIVE + Welcome 