Happy International Day of Yoga!

Happy International Day of Yoga!

Yoga is a way of life—a way of being. Yoga is community. I am so grateful to have completed my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training just a little over a year ago. It has completely changed my life, and I’m so thankful for the opportunity to teach yoga to others.

There are many paths within yoga. In Ashtanga Yoga, there are eight limbs:

1. Yamas (Moral Restraints)

2. Niyamas (Spiritual Observances)

3. Asana (Physical Postures)

4. Pranayama (Breathing Techniques)

5. Pratyahara (Sense Withdrawal)

6. Dharana (Concentration)

7. Dhyana (Meditation)

8. Samadhi (Bliss, Enlightenment)

   
   

These limbs support me in my everyday life. They serve as both a lens through which I view the world and a guidebook for how I move through it.

Through my personal yoga practice, I have discovered the profound power of the mind-body-spirit connection. I have become stronger and more mobile. I have grown more kind, patient, and self-disciplined. Yoga has taught me how to sit with discomfort—and alchemize it.

Through teaching yoga, I have witnessed the impact these beautiful, ancient teachings have on the community I am honored to be part of. I’ve seen them bring people to tears of joy and release. I’ve seen them spark laughter, joy, and transformation. I’ve seen yoga challenge people in the best ways possible.

I offer my deepest gratitude to Patanjali, the writer(s) of the Yoga Sutras; to the Indus Valley Civilization; to the Vedas; to India; to Nereus Retreats, Michelle, Elise; to Dr. Bharat Vaidya and Ayurved Sadhana; and to all the Yogis and Yoginis who came before and who will come after me. Thank you.