Morning Struggles to Yoga Triumphs with Hatha

Do not be afraid, for I am always with you.
Inspired by watching the Two Popes on Netflix

For the longest time, I just couldn’t get myself to get up this morning. The alarm was set for 5.48am with strong intent to practice yoga from 6am to 7:30am. What actually happened was I barely scraped myself off the bed at 7:15am and practiced from 7:30am to 8am. 30 minutes of yoga a day is still better than nothing. 

The purpose of yoga practice according to Patanjali is to achieve a state of Chitta Vritti Nirodhah, which means removing of the fluctuations of the mind until it rests in a state of total tranquility and peace.

Today, I was nowhere near that peaceful state. My mind just wouldn’t shut up—the mental chatter was nonstop. But even with all that going on, the practice felt good. I especially loved holding Warrior 1 and 2, some of my favorite standing poses. There’s something about them that feels so grounding—they make me feel strong and graceful, while opening my chest to welcome something new.

After a brief sequence of 5-6 poses, there was enough time for a short Savasana (final resting pose after the practice) and a light breakfast before I had to get ready for my work day.

I love when I start my day early with a yoga routine - it gives such a nice boost of energy and positivity to my day. If only I could wake up at 6am every morning.

The napkin "art" pretty much sums up my practice today. See those intermediate Savasanas after the standing poses? They’re the best for resetting and transitioning to the next pose—I like to sprinkle them in generously