There are a lot of different practices within the practice of yoga itself, but you mostly see yoga practiced on the mat (Asana/ postures or poses). However, there are so many other ways to incorporate yoga in your life, the mat is just another tool. You don’t have to stick to one form of practicing, just practice to what feels right for you.

Yoga is a state of mind!

The 8 limbs of yoga is often hidden in the practice of yoga due to the asana highlight, but there are other important elements that are also beneficial. Yoga is a discipline that’s not just about moving the body, it is a state of mind, and a state of being. The 8 limbs of yoga (yamas, niyamas, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, samadhi), outlines different ways to practice yoga on and off the mat. For instance, you can practice pranayama (breath control), or any of the limbs, off the mat. I like to practice breath control (pranayama) while I’m walking my dog, at a park or beach, or even standing in line. Whenever I feel like it, I pranayama, or I practice any of the 8 limbs I feel is necessary during that time.

When you allow yourself to practice yoga off the mat, you allow yourself to open your mind, create space, and expand your abilities. Yoga is a way of life, so you can make it apart of your life in all aspects. I also believe that when you incorporate these practices out of your comfort zone you become a different person. The other day, I decided to practice dharana (concentration) while I was at the beach, and I felt a deep sense of relaxation. When I got home, I felt more productive and creative. My dharana practice allowed me to relax, so when it was time to get work done I was able to execute without feeling rushed. You can literally practice concentrating on anything. It is about the intention, and not necessarily the item.

Yoga is about SELF and commUNITY!

Yoga can be represented through FREEdom, Expression, and Discipline! Your yoga practice is personal and doesn’t have to be done in a particular way. Your practice can give you the time, space, and energy, and overcome any obstacle. The idea is to practice so that you can become a better person for you and the world. That energy spreads. The mind, the body, and soul become intertwined creating a better innerworld from the innerG you created. As creators, we are meant to create life (not referring to making babies), but to create opportunities within ourselves. Practicing yoga does just that. Every day is a brand new day to create opportunities for ourselves, be it create happiness, productivity, connection, etc. We are not limited, only limited by delusions that were created by someone else. Allow your daily practice to free you from those delusions, and help create YOUR reality in a more loving and WHOLElistic way.

Affirmation

I have the ability to expand my practice and life for my higher good.