Page 74 - ESCARPMENT MAGAZINE | Spring 2013

I often describe the time on our mats as “a training ground for life”. My theory is that when we integrate
body, mind and spirit and link themwith the breath, something magical happens. The body has a way of aligning
itself to promote the flow of prana (breath). When prana flows in an optimal way, the body experiences a sense
of freedom: freedom in the physical body and freedom in the heart. The practice of yoga can help us to trans-
form. With proper alignment, we can become more open and sensitive, and we begin to pay attention to how
we feel. Life becomes more clear and situations are looked at differently. With continued practice, one can
begin to realize true potential and how to maneuver through life in a more positive way without limitations.
Yoga is far more than simply a series of poses. When we challenge ourselves in poses that take us out of our
comfort zone while staying connected to our breath, then we are more able to face challenges in our lives that
take us out of our comfort zones. It’s quite remarkable. If you are looking for a transformation that will benefit
you for a lifetime, get to your yoga mat!
Here are 6 points to help you remember what it’s all about:
1. Yoga is more than a physical practice.
2. You are way stronger then you think you are.
3. The practice of yoga begins on your mat but ends up
spilling into all aspects of life.
4. Life really is beautiful; sometimes we just need to ex-
plore a little deeper to find that out.
5. Staying connected to the breath helps. |E|
Shirlee Williams is owner of Buddha Rider Yoga and Cycle Studio www.buddharider.com
{
74 Escarpment Magazine Spring 2013
Everything will be
all right in the end.
So if it is not all right,
then it is not yet the end.
~ taken from The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
a training
ground
for life
Spring brings fresh energy and an enthusiasm
for change. We find ourselves transitioning
with a new-found appreciation
for what is to come.
Spending time on our mats and connecting to
ourselves is one of the best ways to grow
and to bring about positive change
from the inside out.
g time on our mats and connecting to
YOGA
ESCARPMENT WELLNESS
|
make-overs from the inside out
BY SHIRLEE WILLIAMS