Like most people, I thought Yoga was just another exercise system. One that looked cool because of the different poses, cute outfits, and props. It wasn’t until I enrolled into my 1st yoga instructor program that I actually surrendered to the FULL yogic way of life. Sure I had heard and seen some things that were maybe a little weird to some but felt right to my spirit, but I wasn’t all in. Once I began to practice Yoga on an ethical level, I truly found the pieces of my life. What I learned was that yoga is a sophisticated system that extends far beyond doing yoga postures, it is a way of living! Deborah Adele author of The Yamas & Niyamas said it best, “Yoga is designed to bring you more and more awareness of not only your body but also your thoughts. The teachings are a practical, step-by-step methodology that bring understanding to your experience. They are like a detailed map, telling you where you are and how to look for the next landmark. They facilitate taking ownership of your life and directing it towards the fulfillment that you seek.”

It was this philosophy that taught me true compassion and love not only for myself, but also for all beings in the universe!

In my experience, yoga was a physical practice of asana, that evolved into an amazing life altering practice. My practice involves so much more than the physical aspect. The Yamas & Niyamas has taught me so much about who I am currently, who I was, and who I am evolving into.

What I know NOW is that the work is not only done On the mat, but the real work is done Off of the MAT!

There are so many resources to deepen your yogic lifestyle practice. I have listed some of my favorites below:

One of the essential steps on the way to realizing yourself is building an honest relationship with yourself. It determines how open we are to the world and how sincere we can be with the people around us. 

Peace & Love Beauties