Day 333 Intention ~ Practice...

Day 333 Intention ~ Practice...

Just because Thanksgiving is over, it doesn't mean we stop practicing all the "nice" behaviors that we say & do over the holiday. Today, not only will I practice yoga (yes, I need a little bit of twisting too!), but I will continue to practice positive ways of living that hopefully make not only my days brighter, but those I meet in those days.

Throughout the year, not just at holidays, I vow to continue to practice: 

1. Kindness

2. Honesty

3. Compassion & empathy

4. Gratitude

5. Giving & living joyfully

6. Positive thinking

7. Healthy eating habits

8. Eco-awareness

9. Conscious eating (ie: vegan...at least vegetarian, organic, local, ++++)

10. Love for myself & for others. 

I think a list of 10 is good for today! 

Hope you all are enjoying a break from work still & if not, that you are enjoying your day! 

Til tomorrow...namaste

Shanti, 

Marcia

Day 235 Intention ~ Practice Ahimsa

Day 235 Intention ~ Practice Ahimsa

Ahimsa, one of the yamas or restraints, that yogis are supposed to practice to live in a yogic way. Non-violence or non-harming. Being vegan or vegetarian, trying to leave less of a carbon footprint on the world, being kind (or at least not mean!) in thoughts, words, and action. To other beings...even yourself. 

I reminded myself of this today as I started to beat myself up for not making it to Ashtanga this morning. As a woman, sorry guys, bear with me for a moment, there are certain times that a less vigorous practice or even skipping practice for a day or two is recommended. That is where I am at today. Although, I have just been enjoying my reinstated Ashtanga practice so much these days that I hate to miss an actual led class rather than home practice. But, alas, I am feeling a bit rundown and wanted to sleep in a bit. As the day goes on, I know I made the right choice and that a gentler, more restorative practice is in order today. So, in an attempt to be a little less harming to myself, the harmful chatter to myself has ceased. 

This is one way to bring yoga into your *very* personal daily life :) There are many many other ways. Yoga doesn't end once we step off of our mat...that is when it starts. It's a lifestyle. Live it. 

Til tomorrow...

Shanti, 

Marcia

Day 231 Intention ~ Be Understanding...and Kind

Day 231 Intention ~ Be Understanding...and Kind

In my line of work you deal with the general public...a lot. Many ask me questions before or after class about either some of the yoga poses we did in class that day, about certain studios/teachers, or other general yoga questions. 

Of course, I am always open to these questions and love when my students are interested in learning more. 

Every once in awhile, someone just keeps going and going. There are definitely people that need a little more hand holding in class and after class. Although I do try to be understanding, it can get to me at times. Today, I can feel that I have a bit of an annoyance coming on when it comes to a certain student, which is NOT how I want to feel or act towards this person. 

So, today, I am trying to remind myself to be understanding and kind to this student. This is my intention. But first, a few deep breaths in and out. :)

Til tomorrow...

Shanti, 

Marcia

Day 212 Intention ~ Be Kind

Day 212 Intention ~ Be Kind

It sounds so simple and it really is simple. Sometimes we just need reminded. We can get so caught up in our stressed out worlds that we forget that it is just easier and just plain more pleasant to simply be kind to those around you. 

Whenever I have snapped at someone, I always feel badly about it afterwards. I don't think there has ever been a time that I felt good about it, even in my bitchier teenage years. 

So, kill 'em with kindness, right?! 

If you find yourself getting frustrated today and ready to snap, try being kind and see how the situation may turn around. Everyone will feel better about it that way also. 

Til tomorrow...

Shanti, 

Marcia