A Practice (5/9/2006)

A PRACTICE - Def. Something that you work repeatedly in order to acquire or polish a skill.

Over and over again I have to reacquaint my conscience mind with this definition as I practice yoga and re-learn to live my life. The fundamentals have changed, and as I am learning, will continue to change. It is the ability to enjoy the moment I am living without becoming attached to it that will bring me greater balance and accomplishment in my life.

I was reminded of this during my yoga class today. I found it difficult to focus, release, relax and stay in the moment. I felt a sense of frustration in what seemed to me to be a relapse, or steps backwards in my progress. Oddly enough, this particular class was drawn to a close by having all the students sum up and express their experience. After relaying my observation, my instructor reminded me that there will be ups and downs, ebbs and flows in my practice. Some days will be wonderful. Others will be good. While still others will leave me with a sense of longing. It is by means of awareness that we accept each experience for what it is and move on. As stated in the Tao, we should not become attached to a feeling or judge our current moment based on previous experiences. We should however, accept each experience, being in the moment in it's entirety. Feeling the here/now, yet not building an expectation that we may become attached to. This could be very damaging and will hinder our own movement and connection with our being.

Again, I am finding that there is more to be learned with each breath. Always another way to see, understand and accept a moment, thought, or feeling.

I initially began the practice of yoga with the intention of better physical health. It is only in the continued practice that I am seeing that the physical benefits are simply an outward sign of the inner healing and peace that can be found by continuing to work at this practice.

Today I wish gentle thoughts of caring to all. May your mind and body find peace.