Transitions

I read an article the other day in Yoga Journal that mentioned using transitions as a focus in our Yoga practice.  I brought the idea into my next few Yoga classes as my intention (which I always tell my students) and noticed what a difference it made for both my students practice and for myself as a teacher.

We have a tendency to forget the small moments that make up our day.  It's a habit in which we lose ourselves on a regular basis.  What color was the sky when you looked out your window this morning?  How did your food sound and smell as you prepared breakfast?  What sorts of noises do you hear and scents so you smell when you leave your house?  I live in one of the most beautiful places on the planet and yet I still am guilty of losing my sense of self and how the world around me makes me feel as I jump in the car and head to my next Yoga class.  I shifted my presence this week.  I recognized the habits I've gotten into, acknowledged my every movement, slowed my thoughts and deepened my breath as I transitioned toward my next goal.  I restored the sense of beauty, calmness and serenity in my day to day life that I'd been missing.

Connecting your breath to as many moments as you can will begin to center you.  Your presence will take hold and move you through your transitions mindfully.  It will not only give you the strength to move forward, but will open your heart to the next pose, plan or event in your life.  Try it.  See what it can bring you.