Gratitude and Yoga

One thing Kay emphasises in yoga is to be kind-not only to others but yourself as well. While practicing yoga don't be discouraged when poses are difficult and react by thinking there is something wrong with your body. Instead be understanding and realize what muscles and joints are sore/tight and why. Don't push your muscles past what they can handle because you will end up INCREDIBLY sore the next day. Can't touch the floor during uttanasana (forward bending pose)? Reach for mid shin instead. Can't handle holding a lunge in Warrior II today? Don't lunge. "Where ever you are at today is perfect"- She says this EVERY session and it really helps set the tone of the class. 

At a recent session Kay gave us the beads pictured - they don't have to be a key chain, I just wanted them to be. She called them gratitude beads. There are 7 beads and the goal is to find 7 things a day- big or small- you are grateful for. Any time you are feeling upset, worn down, sad, or stressed she told us to look at the beads and try to think of something we are grateful for or that makes us happy. The tiny little bead at the end = gripe bead, since no one is perfect.

This is one of the things I love about Kay and our yoga practice- the mentality is so positive. In a world where negative thinking seems to be the norm, it is incredible to realize you control your attitude. You can choose to find the good and joy in each day, and when you do your entire prespective will change. You can condition your mind to focus on the good in life, instead of dwelling on the bad. When you realize you only have and control the now, you can stop focusing on the past and speculating about the future. Instead you can live each moment exactly where you are, and be content.

~Anne