Om Hop Yoga

The Buddha on Thoughts

 

The thought manifests as the word; 

The word manifests as the deed;

The deed develops into habit; 

And habit hardens into character.

So watch the thought and its ways with care, 

And let it spring from love

Born out of concern from all beings.

 

 

 

 

Discipline, patience & compassion

 

One of the most important lessons yoga has taught me is that of patience and discipline.  The asana practice is an eternal journey and I love that I don't have to get all of it immediately.  It's a process.  

In the book The World According to Mister Rogers: Important Things to Remember (a little shout out to Brad), Fred Rogers writes, "Development comes from within. Nature does not hurry, but advances slowly."  It's simple yet so profound.  If you tie it back to yoga, It's about being in the moment and letting your body and mind adjust to the pace of nature.  We take baby steps toward that asana that seems impossible.  Our muscles have memory, so when we are compassionate towards ourselves and our bodies, and make an effort each time we practice to get into a particularly difficult pose, we realize one day we are finally in it.  That patience and discipline makes the feeling of accomplishment euphoric, yet humbling as we continue to evolve our practice.  

So take comfort in taking your time.  With a little discipline, patience, and compassion you'll be amazed at your progress.  

[photo by my dad]

your body is a sacred vessel

Your body is a sacred vessel.  In the prologue of Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, B.K.S Iyengar says simply, yet profoundly, "Body, mind and spirit are inseparable: if the body is asleep, the soul is asleep." In the most basic sense, how light and energetic do you feel when you exercise and perform any physical activity, regardless of whether it's yoga, running, biking, shooting hoops, raking leaves, frolicking, tying your sneakers, or reaching for a pot on the highest shelf?  Personally, when I'm mindful of any physical activity I feel so alive and full of life.  And that feeling is even more pronounced when I challenge my body and see how far it can go (within reason of course and with attention to any signs of going too far to prevent injury!).  It's exhilirating.  

In yoga, the asana (physical) practice cultivates alertness, concentration, and a deep awareness of the body.  Your senses are hightened and sensitized and overtime your practice becomes more mindful.  Asanas that seemed impossible become accessible and you realize your body's capabilities.  It's a beautiful thing. 

So regardless of how busy you are, how demanding your job is, as soon as you acknowledge the importance of physical activity for health, as well as, spiritual and mental well-being, rearranging your priorities will take a little less effort.  And although you'll probably have to apply a little bit of discipline, set goals, and make an effort to commit, it's worth it in the long run.  You may feel just a little more fulfilled and a little more alive.  So please devote yourself to nuturing and strengthening this wonderful vessel that carries you throughout the day and helps you function in so many beautiful ways.  

Brighten someone's day...

Next time you're at the check-out counter in the grocery store, or getting coffee, or passing a security guard at work acknowledge them by smiling, asking how their day went, having some sort of interaction.  I promise you'll break up and brighten their day, as well as your own.  The more you come out of your head and interact with the rest of the world, the more connected you'll feel.  Namaste (the light in me sees the light in you...).