Yoga is the union of body, mind and spirit. And
contrary to what many envision, the essence of
yoga is not only about balancing on one foot or
touching one’s head to the floor. Asanas (poses)
are only a fraction of the big yoga picture, as
are breathing, meditation and reading. They are
techniques used to help us progress toward
well-being and balance.
As we move along our yoga path, we are
unconsciously discovering the true essence of
yoga. While we have all heard about the numerous
benefits yoga can offer us ( flexibility, stress
relief, muscle strengthening, focus, relaxation
etc.), it is only with practice and careful
observation that we can fully understand and
feel its true essence. Through focused
breathing, we not only improve our physical
health and our asanas, but we cultivate our
ability to spend time in the present moment. And
only then can we live our lives fully,
appreciating every single moment without running
ahead or wasting time with the past.
By learning to change our way of seeing things,
we gradually change our lives. Therefore, as we
move along our path, our way of reacting to
situations changes, our relationships improve
and our minds become calmer as we learn to let
go and ground ourselves to what matters most.
Yoga directs us towards gratitude, love, healthy
lifestyle choices and nature. As we become more
aware of these guidelines, we will begin to
notice small changes in our everyday lives.
Soon, the benefits of yoga will be felt as much
off the mat as on the mat. The path we’ve chosen
is a wonderful one which has the power to lead
us towards a simple, peaceful and fulfilling
life. But life, as is our yoga practice, is our
own personal journey and each step is to be
enjoyed and lived in full without being
preoccupied with the destination. Savor each
moment and be mindful of the NOW. Enjoy the
journey!!
‘To excel in life is to accept responsibility
for all of your moments. In all encounters,
situations and events, you must ask yourself
only one question: ‘How can I make this great?’’- Ginette Aucoin
© Copyright 2010 Ginette Aucoin. All rights
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