In Colorado, many of us have enjoyed a lasting summer season, and perhaps, dreading the change to fall. While others are ready for a season change and forward-thinking into the future. In yoga practice, we focus on being present. Living in the present is to be aware of what is happening to you, what you are doing and what you are feeling and thinking. It is being conscious of your thoughts and focusing them on the present. In this way you look at situations as they are, without coloring them with your past experiences. You begin to see things as they are,20without being influenced by fears, anger, desires or attachments. How many of us go through our daily lives tightened up and contracted, reacting to stressful circumstances with numb hearts, shallow breath and anxious thoughts?
Thousands of years ago, ancient yogis recognized that we are unable to truly experience our present state because we are distracted by the chatter in our minds and tension in our bodies. They developed “asanas,” or yoga postures, to work every muscle and cell of the body - rinsing out toxins and incorporating breathing techniques to relieve you from physical and mental stress. Part of “being present” is recognizing the need for a season change in regard to your own health. A change in the way you process stress, in your exercise habits, in how your fuel your body, or maybe in your thought life. Yoga is good for what ails you. Specifically, research shows that yoga helps manage or control anxiety, arthritis, asthma, back pain, blood pressure, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic fatigue, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, headaches, heart disease, multiple sclerosis, stress and other conditions and diseases. What's more, yoga improves muscle tone, flexibility, strength and stamina. Yoga boosts self-esteem, improves concentration and creativity. It even lowers fat, improves circulation and stimulates the immune system.
Inevitably this autumn, change is upon us. Practice being present and take in the world around you. Enjoy the beautiful colors in nature and breathe in the crisp fall air. Recognize your mental chatter and areas in your body in which you physically harbor tension. Come to class and experience the benefits of yoga for the mind and body - bringing a new consciousness to your relationships, your work, and your health! Namaste. |
