YOGA POSE OF THE DAY: HANDSTAND

“Transformation is sustained change, and it is achieved through practice.” B.K.S. Iyengar

I’ve been working on my handstands in my yoga practice, and am just beginning to appreciate this challenging and rewarding pose.  Finally, I can feel the grace and ease when my body is truly in alignment. I used to try so hard to get my handstands “right,” and they always eluded me.  Then I learned how to trust my wrists…trust my arms…trust my shoulders…and the rest of my body naturally eased into place.

Things can be easy when we let them be.  It is an adjustment to get used to flowing with the current when we are used to struggling.  Handstand reminds me that when I am in alignment with my daily actions, every endeavor feels more graceful and effortless…

Taking It To The Mat

Last month I visited my hometown in Michigan for my nephew’s graduation.  It was a valuable reminder of the importance of family.

One thing I wanted to share about the trip was an amazing experience I had “on the yoga mat” while I was there.  The yoga class I took in Michigan was one of the most intense I’ve ever had.

The first half of the class was fairly straight forward; allowing the students to do the movements, postures and vinyasas on our own. The instructor would make minor corrections to individuals if necessary. And then something surprising and unexpected happened.

I felt self conscious.  Even a bit embarrassed.

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