The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. - Martin Luther King, Jr. On Monday evening I went to my first official yoga class. Ever. In my entire life. Simply put: it was amazing. It was me and the mat. I felt like I was the only person in the room and it was truly incredible. This was so much more than a sweat-fest workout. It was powerful and made believe in myself now more than ever before. At the beginning of 2012, I compiled a list of things that I wanted to do at some point over the year. The list was diverse. It was a little bit serious, a little bit funny. It included wearing high heels, martinis and annual check-ups at the doctor. And yoga. Although I set the intention to try yoga, I never took action. I gave myself reasons why I would not like it. I told myself that I would not be good at it. I set myself up to dislike something without ever even giving it a chance. This was unfair and I am truly sorry, yoga. 2013 has been and continues to be the year of all things awesome and now that includes yoga. Throughout the hour-long sweaty candle class at Black Swan Yoga, I felt something I have never felt before. I was able to connect with my body and find peace and solitude in the process. I pushed myself and tried new things. I felt strong, powerful and beautiful. I was one with myself; aware in mind, body and spirit. Much of what the fabulous instructor (Jaxx!!!) said resonated with me; drop the things that no longer serve you, have no fear, live with intention and purpose. These are all things that I have been trying to put into practice in my own life. Now more than ever before. In order to evolve and grow, we must do things that challenge us. Our minds and bodies react to new stimulus and become stronger than before. In a way, yoga is a metaphor for life. Everything comes down to the reaction. We are putting our bodies in challenging and unfamiliar positions and must find peace and grace in the situation. How do we react when we hit a bump or maybe stumble a little bit? In each and every moment we have a new beginning and the opportunity to take a deeper step into our lives. With each breath there is new opportunity. How will you react? What will you do to live your best life? I will continue to take risks. Every day. I will live with purpose and intention. I will seek out the things that challenge me and do things that will force my mind, body and soul to adapt. I trust my instincts and have faith in my intuition and am going after everything that I want. No turning back. No Plan B. I am proud of what I have already accomplished but am hungry to accomplish more. I will continue to push myself a little bit further each and every day. I will persist until I succeed and will become better than I have ever been. Oh - and I will do more yoga. Namaste, bitches. |