“How Often Do You Practice Yoga?”

When people ask me, “How often do you practice yoga?” I like to say, “I do my best to practice in every moment of every day.”  

While asana (yoga poses) are an integral and necessary part of my practice, the physical poses are only a small part of what I do in comparison to my yoga practice off the mat. The way that I treat myself and others, and how I choose to nurture the environment are also important aspects of my practice.

Practicing yoga in all of my decision-making means that I am mindful and considerate of several perspectives. I am always trying to remember to weigh the impact and possible effects of my decisions on others. In every word and deed, I am attempting to honor my best self, our planet, those that I love, and those that I have yet to meet.  

When I feel authentically connected to the core of who I am, when my mind, body and heart are in unity, I know I am in alignment with my yoga practice. Moving through life in this way helps me to remember that we are all one. There is no separation. Separation is an illusion the ego creates for a sense of control and safety in a chaotic, fear-driven world. We all have the power to choose love in all moments, and love shines a light where there is fear and ignorance, so we can finally see what is holding us back from living on purpose. When we have the courage to let go of what no longer serves us, we make space for what is best for our highest self. When I am living in my light and you are living in yours, we are one.  

Living my yoga is not always easy and my practice is not always pretty, but I am thankful for all of it.  And I am very grateful to all of you for sharing parts of your practice with me.

How do you practice yoga off the mat? Share your comments below!