Stay on Your Mat

I recently joined Rising Lotus Yoga and have thoroughly enjoyed the classes and many lessons I have learned during each yoga “practice”. One might think that the important part of this instruction is what takes place during class, but many practice principles could help us navigate through our busy lives.
A very common thread in almost every class is, “Stay on your mat.” This can be utilized in our lives in many instances.
For example: Don’t compare yourself to anyone else; Be present and leave the world behind, if only for one hour; Be still and listen to the quiet or the friend you are having lunch with; Close your eyes to feel a completely different dimension of your senses; and Live in the moment of what you are doing instead of thinking about other chores on your list.
Another life pearl is, “Lead with your heart.” There is a common exercise we do that has us in a forward fold, then rise to standing. An instructor suggested that we come to stand with a flat back and lead with our hearts rather than stand with our heads lowered. Think about what a wonderful world it would be if we all lived our lives by “leading with our hearts.”
Don’t forget the familiar yoga chant, “Breathe”. Many situations come to mind where this could be put into practice: when stuck in traffic; when frustrated with a loved one; when feeling that we aren’t being heard or understood; and when fatigue doesn’t allow us to handle any more stress.
Think about what good these principles could do for you when incorporated into your daily life. Speaking about what is good for you, to make an appointment for your annual exam, call Pat News Health Care at 661-799-7000.