I’m sharing thoughts about my practice and what I’ve observed throughout the years.  Please continue reading for 2 1/2 minutes to learn about my practice.
I’ve been practicing for 27 years.  I began in 1995 after my daughter was born.  As a newly single mom, I needed an outlet to help relieve stress and anxiety.  My commitment to the practice grows stronger each year. I’ve maintained a steady, consistent routine for the last 15 years.  The truth is, I can’t live without it anymore.  It’s easy to remember to practice because it’s a part of my routine. When I get busy and don’t practice, I notice a difference in how I feel.  I prefer myself “on yoga” rather than off of it.
I never thought of Yoga as exercise.  I did not come to the practice to accomplish difficult poses, and I’ve never really challenged myself to do so.  I can’t do most “advanced” poses, and I’m okay with that!  That’s not it for me.  That is not why I practice.  I practice to improve myself as a human on a journey of awakening and to connect to all that is to the earth, the stars, the elements, all creatures and organisms, all beings, and to cosmic consciousness.
I am grateful to be alive and share this human experience with all of you, and my practice has helped me see life from a different lens. Â My hope for sharing thoughts about my practice might inspire you to dive deeper into your practice, and perhaps you can relate to some of my thoughts posted here.
“Yoga is a powerful vehicle for change. As you build strength you start to believe in your own potential.” Tiffany Cruikshank
Here are 21 thoughts about my practice:
- I enjoy a gentle, slow and mindful practice
- Slowing down helps me tune into my body and mind and notice what’s there
- My approach is best when I take time to notice and feel how my body and mind respond to each pose and each breath
- I like to pause a lot throughout my practice and pay attention
- I don’t want to feel rushed when I practice
- A complete practice includes asana, pranayama, and meditation
- I’ve learned to modify when I have limited time
- I always use props and enjoy finding new ways to support my practice with props
- Meditation feels best immediately following an asana practice, and I enjoy it as a practice on its own as well
- I love practicing at home in the company of my pets
- Hot classes don’t feel good to me because I have a lot of fire in my body already
- I enjoy more physical practice in the Winter months and more still practice in the Summer months
- I love reading about and studying the science of Yoga, and I do so often
- I love sharing the practice with others in the community
- I’ve been working on my practice off the mat more recently by being of service to others
- I can learn something new from every teacher, but I am my own best teacher
- I enjoy online classes and workshops if I can’t make it to a local studio
- I’ve enjoyed all the relationships I’ve fostered through the practice, including teachers and students
- I’m committed to a lifelong practice
- I love the way my body feels during and after my practice
- My practice feels different every time I step on the mat
I’m excited that Yoga has become common and accessible to almost everyone.  I am living proof that it works and is undoubtedly good for all of us.  My practice is a blessing in my life.
May all beings live happy and free! Â Happy International Yoga Day!
Peace + blessings,
~Zen Jenn