This morning I was fortunate to share some “air time” with Caroline Modarressy-Tehrani, the Host & Producer of HuffPostLive’s Thrive Online where she talks women, world news, religion, and politics. Today’s topic was: How Yoga and Meditation Made My Life Better. I was a guest on the show along with yoga instructors from NYC, Austin, and SoCal.
I gotta say, I do always get a little nervous before speeches, interviews, and media appearances, and often find that later when I listen back to the recording, I didn’t say what I planned to say. This morning’s segment was no exception. Thankfully, the “yoga off the mat” practitioner in me doesn’t attach to a specific outcome, though 😉 and I trust that what was said was what was supposed to be said, and what was heard by those listening was exactly what they needed to hear at that moment. So, Just Roll With It™, right?! 🙂
In all seriousness, I just want to let you know that if you ever have any questions at all about yoga, I’d love chat with you. Yoga really has saved my life time and time again, both while deployed as a Marine and as it continues to keep me sane day-in and day-out now.
There are a lot of “styles” of yoga out there, and that can be intimidating in and of itself to new practitioners. So, here’s my advice to you: JUST BREATHE. 🙂 Really. Even if you’re doing the poses differently, or feel lost or confused, as long as you’re paying even a little more attention to your breath and feeling even a little more mindful of your movement, then you’re doing yourself a solid. Also, know that yoga is for everyBODY. I have had a lot of injuries, and I get frustrated practicing sometimes. Also, I’m an athlete and a warrior, so on the other end of the spectrum, I can empathize with those who have a strong desire to physically challenge themselves and I promise you, yoga can do that, too. Yoga can both strengthen and heal, and part of the joy of the journey is learning when to “push” and when to “surrender,” and ultimately finding out how the two can end up being one in the same.
So, if you’re on a yogic journey of any kind, keep walking your path, my friend. Keep trying out classes, researching online, and asking friends who already practice what’s up with that yoga stuff.
Also, in addition to listening to the HuffPostLive interview from today, here are some other resources I recommend you check out and please leave a comment below about how yoga has impacted YOUR life. I really would love to hear. 🙂 I know I am infinitely grateful to my teachers, mentors, and peers who provide me non-stop inspiration and instruction, and I would be nowhere without them. I love hearing stories of others’ inspirations, as well.
10 Reasons Why It’s Not Yoga Unless You Sweat
{VIDEO} Just Breathe: Align & Shine in Battle and Beyond
You’re Stronger Than You Think You Are: Practicing Yoga With Injuries
I Wanted My Life Taken From Me, But Yoga Brought Me Back: A Veteran Perspective
Did this blog spark your interest in working together? Want to health coach with me? Great! Check out my coaching page HERE or contact me with any questions about how we can integrate yoga, food, faith, and wellness practices to co-create a happy and resilient lifestyle you actually want to live!
* P.S. Did you like those photos in the video? Photo credits from the HuffPostLive interview go to James Richard Kao Photography
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