Organic Digest VOL1. Issue1 Jun. 2014 | Page 33

by Basu Rhonda For many, yoga is seen as a mostly physical practice of weird looking and seemingly impossible poses to get into and out of. The truth is, yoga that, but yet so much more. Yoga is a journey of selfdiscovery. It is not and should never be approached as only an obligation or chore just to keep the physical body fit and in shape. This type of approach will likely yield only limited results. In the Thef Neteru Sema Paut System, a system of Kemetic Yoga, one is taught to move through creation and all of its phases, to move from the lower self to the higher self, and ultimately, to appreciate the cycle of life, death and re-birth. Yoga takes you on a journey of enlightenment. There are a myriad of benefits gained by engaging in a regular yoga practice. It is a journey, a practice that starts on the mat, but the principles of which should continue into your everyday life, even after the mat is rolled up and put away until the next time. For Kemetic Yoga Basu (Instructor) Rhonda Wright, ‘Yoga In Motion; Take if off the mat!’ is her yoga mantra. Always encouraging and reminding students and practitioners, that when one has the need, moving into a yoga posture at any time, anywhere is easy and sometimes necessary to do. There is also a mindfulness to never ‘leave behind’ The Breath, which is the foundation of your yoga practice. As yoga Instructor, Mycal Bryan always reminds us always, ‘Your breath is not an accessory to your yoga practice, your breath IS your yoga practice!” So whether you currently practice yoga, or are considering taking it up, here are 3 simple principles that you should take from your yoga practice and how you can incorporate them into your daily life: 1. Anchor Down Ground yourself through your feet by flexing the heals, lifting the knees, and strengthening the thighs to feel balanced at your root. That stability can be applied to every uncomfortable situation, because this journey isn’t about finding a permanent way to avoid life’s hurdles; it’s about figuring out how to go through them without breaking. 2. Sink into Your Foundation Once you feel steady, hold it and breathe. Think about full, rounded breaths. Try four inhales and four exhales to slow everything down. Let the awareness of your breath keep you feeling full and strong so that you’re empowered to step outside your comfort zone, attempt new levels in poses, and be fearless in life. 3. Accept your situation Some poses are less comfortable than others depending on which muscles you hold stress in the most. Yoga is about being able to recognize where you are and remaining flexible with yourself. Be compassionate with your body; every day is different. Try to change the inner dialogue from fear of failure and limiting beliefs to positive self-talk about being proud of who and where you are. Resource: MindBodyGreen:Stefani Beckerman