Working out, walking, stretching, running, isn't just about the physical aspect, and, when we take the time to appreciate just how miraculous and splendid just the physical form itself really is, we begin to cultivate an acute mindfulness of our practice. This, ironically, births a greater strength; one of which our "original intent" was not fully aware of its existence. I like to call this our higher-level, "integrated strength" - the unified strength of body-mind-soul.
Below is something I read recently that really struck a cord with me as it emphasizes this thought. I thought I'd share it with you and hope that it inspires you as it has me...as well as improved my our practice - from my yoga, my meditation, and my workouts:
"Traditional Western exercise regimes tend to compartmentalize the body—either you do cardio or work your arms, legs, back, abs, and so on. But every movement you make engages an intricate array of muscles. Think about it—you are capable of balancing the weight of your torso on two long supports, smoothly transferring this weight from one support to the other, and all while maintaining a constant rate of motion and flawless balance. This requires the perfect coordination of hundreds of muscles, large and small, across your entire body. And that's just walking!
The human body has more than 600 muscles, many which are too small, or too deep inside the body, for us to see. Hundreds of tiny muscles across the body work constantly to maintain our balance, stability, and precision of movement-all vital qualities for a healthy yoga practice.
Take a moment today to appreciate the amazing feats of coordination your body accomplishes in even the simplest of acts, such as walking, sitting up, or holding an intense yoga pose."
Who am I?
I am an armchair psychologist - East meets West; a yogini in training to make it official; a Buddhist at heart; a healer and teacher by nature. I was a Buddhist monk in at least one past life that I know of. I love children for their unfiltered innocence and never-ending supply of pure, positive energy. I tattoo things on my body that forever tattoo my psyche. I enjoy fall days - best enjoyed somewhere airy with someone warm (thanks, my dear George). I'm known to have my nose in a book...most likely several of them. I'm also know for spontaneous bursts of laughter, big smiles, and mischief. I like to people watch. I like window shopping. Yes, my head is shaved. I love everything about my family. I talk to my dog because he can understand me and I he. I follow my intuition and use my brain for math problems. Quotes inspire me; I write them on my mirrors. I like to put things on my fridge because it reminds me of when I was little and my mom would put my drawings up to show the world. I like sharing in deep conversation...philosophical discussion. I love the earth, the moon, the sun, the stars, the Universe.