PATH:  Twenty some years ago I experienced backaches on a fairly regular basis, and happened to come across my first yoga book. After a few days of stretching in the recommended poses, my lower back felt well again, and I was hooked. Years later, I’m still drawn to yoga. Why? I like the way my body and mind feel afterwards, there is always something new to learn, anyone can practice yoga, no special equipment is needed, and I get to go barefoot. 

INSPIRATION: All the teachers I’ve ever had have inspired me in some way. This includes my students, who are my greatest teachers. Poetry also opens windows and doors in my mind, and sometimes a refreshing breeze blows through. A few of the poets that inspire me include Rumi, Hafiz, Mary Oliver, and David Whyte. John O’Donohue writes gorgeous poetic blessings. Here’s one:


May you awaken to the mystery of being here 
and enter the quiet immensity of your own presence.
May you have joy and peace in the temple of your senses.
May you receive great encouragement when new frontiers beckon.
May you respond to the call of your gift 
and find the courage to follow its path.
May the flame of anger free you from falsity.
May warmth of heart keep your presence aflame 
and may anxiety never linger about you.
May your outer dignity mirror an inner dignity of soul.
May you take time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek no attention.
May you be consoled in the secret symmetry of your soul.
May you experience each day as a sacred gift 
woven around the heart of wonder. 

—John O'Donohue (Anam Cara) 

FAVORITES FOR GROUNDING: Deep stretch yoga, sensory awareness meditations, breath work, swimming in natural bodies of water, being with children and animals, gratitude.

FAVORITES FOR KICKING IT: Flow yoga, sun salutations, shooting hoops, biking, laughing.

PRACTICE: I start my day with gentle yoga and deep stretches, and then do a few forms of meditation. Even a brief yoga practice in the morning gives me what I came for, and more.

INTENTION: I like to teach classes that help individuals experience the truth of who they really are.  At the end of class, my hope is that you will feel relaxed and at peace.  It's all possible.

CLASS:
Mindful Yoga, Fridays, 10:30 a.m.