Today I was thinking....

So I've been thinking about my yoga practice and the ways it impacts my life lately. I have to tell you that who I am today as a result of yoga is a transformation in the making. I have literally begun warning people that "if you start this yoga stuff, just be prepared, because the changes, that you cannot even imagine, will begin to occur for you in your life". And I do not mean this lightly or flippantly.

I have noticed I am much more aware, not just of myself which can include the aspects of myself I am very please with and proud of all the way to the other end of the continuum where let's just say, the areas of enhancement lie. But it happens without judgement. It's the awareness that fascinates me. To be able to cultivate this observing mind and simply 'notice'. This extends to the meaning and perception of things that allow me to feel much more grounded in my life - despite what the day may bring. Now if I'm being honest, I can react to the world around me just as anyone else but the awareness of CHOICES in how to RESPOND to those REACTIONS has become greatly amplified as a result of a meditational and yoga practice.

In yoga we talk about "ahimsa" - the concept and practice of doing no harm to self, other, including the environment and animals with which we share this environment. By choice, I have moved to a 95% vegetarian diet.

It was through yoga that I was led to a more whole foods and vegetarian way of eating. This of course is just another way to respect myself, my body, and the environment. "Ahimsa". The new book The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted and the Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss and Long-term Health further supports this approach to nurturing and HEALING vs. abusing our bodies. I recommend this book as a must read for EVERYONE! Teens included!

I have also become very aware of the impact of the chemicals we use in our homes and on our bodies and moved to more natural products. A wonderful company that is committed to the environment and teaching a greener way to live is Seventh Generation . Their products are readily available and affordable at Whole Foods Markets and Eastside Marketplace. It was the Great Law of the Iroquois Confederacy that reminds us that "In every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations". Click here to read about the difference and health benefits to you, your children, pets and the environment simply by switching laundry detergents.

So this is my thinking today. Consider taking a yoga class, but be very aware of the transformation in your own life and the unexpected blessings or gifts that will come your way. It all comes down to living fully the life we are meant to live and aligning our choices and actions in a way that supports the full self expression of our spirit!

Namaste! (The divine in my honors and recognizes the divine in you!)