Over the past nine months my home/personal practice has been tremendously transformed as an aspect of going through teacher training. I’ve noticed myself continually evaluating the alignment, comfort and ease of mobility in my body both on and off my mat. The mindfulness concept that so often seemed theoretical is something that I’ve really pushed myself to integrate into all aspects of life. I started by incorporating aspects of asana preparation such as ankle rolls, uttkatasana at the wall, and shoulder work into my every day routine – during my morning coffee, while reading email & the news, or taking a break from desk work at my pervious job. I also started to pay more and more attention to how various asana and my development with those asana have changed over time. For example, I feel much more comfortable and confident kicking up into handstands, shoulder stands, and inversions overall than I ever have previously. I still fall from time to time, I still use the wall as a security measure, and some days are much stronger than others. But that’s my perspective on learning overall. Its a great lesson in commitment, humility and the sweet sweet rewards of success.
I have found that my preferred time to spend time on my mat is first thing in the morning as the sun is coming up and peaking through the trees. If the morning is pleasant, I’ll even choose to do my routine outside. The song birds provide an incredibly serene and peaceful atmosphere. This has also helped prevent me from being ‘too tired’ at the end of a long day and skipping out. Practicing on my own has also encouraged me to learn how to explain and navigate each posture and examine some of my own barriers to deepening my own understanding.
I have learned and experimented with what having strength and alignment can do for my body in these asana. I’ve experimented with my foot placement and how its effects resonate through the rest of my asana. Its incredible how having a strong foundation and working from the ground up can embrace stability and balance, both physically and mentally. I have grown increasingly mindful of my own body, more observant of the bodies of those surrounding me, and the effects of integrating teachings into all aspects of day to day life.
What I’ve learned is that a daily yoga practice doesn’t always mean taking an hour or more to get on your mat and work. It’s everything. Some days might be a five minute Downward facing dog off the door handle. Other days may have a much more traditional structured practice. The important thing is that it’s something you want to do rather than just one more thing to accomplish on your to-do list. At least these are my observations from my own process and development, perhaps yours is different. What is your home practice like?
Yoga In the Forest 