The past several years have provided many opportunities for change in both my professional and personal lives. Some changes planned, others not so much. Regardless, change can be hard for me. I truly believe I have been able to face change with more open mindedness and optimism (rather than fear and negativity) because of my yoga practice. It has helped me to find perspective, and breath, when faced with uncertainty. For some people that strength comes from prayer. Others find it through meditation. For me it's asana, breath and attention to present moment awareness.
One of the panel discussions at the Yoga Journal Grand Geneva conference was titled Yoga as a Life Tool: How the Practice Can Help You Through Challenging Times. I actually didn't make it to this panel discussion, taking time for a bit longer lunch break between sessions that day, and am so glad that Yoga Journal has added video of the hour long talk to their Yoga Journal TV website. The panel discussion is broken down into 5 segments. Some as short as 5 minutes, one nearing the 20 minute mark. The messages delivered are important, strong messages. Ones I'm not sure I personally was in a good place to hear on day 3 of conference. (As you may remember that was my "I'm hitting a wall I'm so tired" day.) But I so much respect the individuals who were part of the panel and am so glad I (and you) have the chance to hear their words and reflect on how the practice of yoga has extended for each of us off the mat and into our day to day lives.
Do you have a personal story to share about using yoga as your life tool? Please feel free to leave a comment and share.
namaste
Friday, May 15, 2009
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3 comments:
I find that whenever I am faced with fear, change, or anything that presents itself as a challenge, I remove myself from the situation and get my yoga on! Whether it is doing a few poses or breathing. If I return back to my happy place...yoga...I am able to plow through whatever is before me.
Completely apropos of this post...Jenn, I'm working on my final version of the yoga-without-chanting article and I need another quote from a teacher who doesn't use chants. Interested in sharing your thoughts? We can talk or email...whatever is easiest!
Let me know (it's sort of due late tomorrow, so if you can fit me in Monday or Tues. 5/18-19, that would be great!)
Thanks for considering it!
Brenda
Hey Jenn!
I have awarded you a Lemonade Award because I just love your blog!
xoxo
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