James Walsh Yoga

Thursday, December 28, 2017 I'm still enjoying schedule-less days and the soothing effect they have on a persons mental well-being.  I typically live by a schedule, so it's interesting for me to abandon this way of living and allow myself time to drift, float, and be structureless. It's 10:30AM as I type this and I'll be showering and hitting my mat here shortly. I'll be focusing on a strong physical practice, but I'll also be dedicating a lot of the intention of today's practice to my mental focus.  Keeping my brain and thoughts quiet as I move, is more of a challenge than any physical asana. Thursday, December 28, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. My practice was focused and strong this morning, and I was able to continue my observance of honing my mind and my focus. Now that I'm out of Savasana, I'm going to try and maintain this focused, un-rushed pace throughout my day. Namaste

Wednesday, December 27, 2017 I'm enjoying a wonderful holiday break where I can go almost completely schedule-less.  Because of that, I'm waking up later than my usual time, and sipping my coffee longer than normal. I will hit my mat in a little bit, but I have to say that, even with just one practice yesterday, I feel better about myself.  Good things happen and bad things happen and, if there's nothing that can be done, then there's no need to stress and worry (waaaaay easier said than done). I'm going to shower before I hit my mat again (a luxury that I afford myself whenever I've got ample time), and shower afterwards (of course).  Bathing/showering before a practice is one of a few interesting yoga tips that I abide by if time allows. Wednesday, December 27, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I put more focus on my mental acuity today.  One of the principles, and ultimate goals of yoga and meditation ...

Tuesday, December 26, 2017 I'm writing this, on my mat, at 10:30 AM. I'm enjoying the schedule-less holiday break that I'll be on until January 2, 2018, and taking this opportunity to return to my mat. I'm going to enter my practice with an open spirit this morning, and push myself in a very mindful way, being careful not to overdo anything.  I'm going to focus on keeping my mind and heart open and offer up any negative thoughts and feelings that arise to God.   I'll be showering before beginning my practice; clean going to you mat, and clean after being on your mat. Tuesday, December 26, 2017 (Part II) Physical - I felt strong and solid in my practice this morning.  I focus on keeping my legs straight in any forward bend (as I have a tendency to soften my knees) and I'm incorporating the same straightness in my arms for any pose where I use them for support (Downward Dog, predominately).  This focus on my arms moves my poses into inte...

Wednesday, December 20, 2017 Woke up feeling good and ready to hit my mat. I've been re-dedicating myself to my mat lately and have been determined to bring it with me wherever I go to always have it on hand for a practice. If you're interested in Ashtanga yoga, the style that I practice, there's quite a few instructional videos that can help you practice at home; click here to view one. Today, I'm going to focus on bringing 5 qualities into the world with me: Peace Truth Kindness  Understanding Humor Wednesday, December 20, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I pushed myself physically this morning and it was just the thing that I needed.  I had the deepest and strongest backbends I've had in months. I'll probably feel some soreness from the strain tomorrow but I feel like I've unlocked good things in myself via my physical strain this morning.  No fear.  No anxiety.  No aggression.  No con...

Monday, December 18, 2017 Had a wonderful weekend (Star Wars: The Last Jedi, was incredible), but what made it most wonderful was getting to spend it around people I loved. I woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning and enjoyed my usual hour of coffee and "relaxation" before getting on my mat. I'm in a different room of my apartment this morning; one I've never practiced in before.  One of the best things about yoga is that, all you need is your mat, and room to move, and you can practice anywhere. Monday, December 18, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this mid-day through my day instead of on my mat having just come out of Savasana. I was delighted to start my morning with yoga and, while today's practice wasn't anything special, I'm proud I hit my mat and I'm proud that I started my week off right. Namaste

Friday, December 15, 2017 Today will be the 3rd consecutive day of yoga since Wednesday and I'm rededicating myself to a continual practice by bringing my mat with me where ever I go over the weekend so that I've got it whenever I want to practice. I noticed that, Saturday and Sunday are almost never yoga days for me, and, if I skip out 1 day during the week, then the whole thing gets scrapped and I only hit my mat once or twice during a week. I slept in an extra 30 minutes this morning, so I'll be hitting my mat here in just a moment. Feeling good about life, love, and the pursuit of happiness. Friday, December 15, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. If I could summarize two things that I try and shed from myself, it's fear and anxiety. No, I don't have debilitating fear or debilitating anxiety about anything in my life, but I notice that I'll hone in on a thought and I'll spin and spin about it and...

Thursday, December 14, 2017 What is the purpose of this blog? To give me something to report to daily To help me track and catalog my practice To help spread interest about yoga That's it.  Simple. Information about Ashtanga can be found here but it follows a sequence of movements (that I've modified to suit my own needs and daily mood). Vinyasa A Vinyasa B These are the Vinyasas I refer to and are the formalized "warm-up" to the rest of the practice.  I do a non-formalized warm up on my mat just to get myself slightly heated before I actually start. The sequence I follow next goes as follows: Padanguthsthasana: This is the first forward bend that I execute after my Vinyasa series.  It's a good moment to "releax" and catch my breath after the strain of the warm-up.  This is also a good time to re-measure myself; where am I with forward bending/how deep into this bend and I naturally going/how deep into this bend can I mindfully push m...

Wednesday, December 13, 2017 I haven't hit my mat for awhile now and that's no bueno! I don't beat myself up about it, however.  Yoga is a journey, not a destination (puke). I've been feeling like I need to hit mat lately; both for the physical benefit of it all and for the mental head clear that it offers. Two days ago, I got annihilated by either acute food poisoning or stomach flu.  Ate junk on a road trip as we came back home from a friend's wedding and, after consuming said junk, didn't feel nausea right away but just felt "off" and irritable for  an hour or two.  Got home and sat up abruptly from bed with, I'm sure, that focused look on my face that we all get, and went to the bathroom to vomit.  Afterwards, thinking I was in the clear, I laid back down thinking it was done.  Nope.  Continued to head back to the bathroom every hour or so to vomit up the gatorade/water or medicine that I'd taken 30 minutes prior; I couldn't keep...

Wednesday, November 29, 2017 One year ago today, I started this journey. My goals, at the time, were to shape my mind and shape my body.  I'll say that, without a doubt, the past year has given me insight into myself and the world around me, and helped me shape my perspective on all of the events that occur in my life; positive or negative. Wednesday, November 29, 2017 (Part II) I am so very proud of myself.  It didn't hit me until after this morning's practice that I've dedicated myself to this blog for a year.  That's important to me, and I'm amazed at the growth and dedication that came from my practice. I went through my full, modified Ashtanga Primary Series   and ended with my beautiful backbends.  Urdhva Dhanurasana, show at right, is how I end my sequence. I'm very  careful when moving into this pose and, when I'm in it, I'm even more  careful to push myself gently; this is a powerful an strenuous pose that I've injured myself ...

Tuesday, November 28, 2017 One year ago tomorrow I started this blog.  In that year, I went to my mat 159 times. Those 158 times on my mat have changed me, helped me cope with any loss, stress, and unhappiness while helping me realize and appreciate my opportunities, achievements, and successes. This past year has been a remarkable one in my life as I've worked at myself more this past year than any time I can remember; it's helped to shape my mind and my body. I'm going to post again tonight after re-reading this blog from the beginning.

Wednesday, November 22, 2017 This morning is the first chance I've gotten since arriving back home to hit my mat and practice. I'm still settling back into my routine with work, relationships, physical exercise, and eating properly.  Tomorrow is Thanksgiving so I'll eat as balanced as I can today. Physically, I'm feeling well with a little bit of GI noise going on.  I ate trashy for a few days and I've paid for it with low energy. I'm going to practice this morning with zero expectations of how the practice "should" be; I'm just going to move through it and let whatever happens, happen. Wednesday, November 22, 2017 (Part II) Control is a good thing.  You need to have control over your brain, your thoughts and emotions, your reactions to things, and your physical body. Too much control can change into stubbornness which prevents you from evolving.  My control over myself is one of my crowning glories, but I let go of that control this ...

Friday, November 17, 2017 As I near the 1 year mark of practicing yoga and blogging about it, I can say that I've changed, improved, reflected, and grown a lot. What hasn't  changed, and has only gotten stronger, is the value and need I have for my family and loved ones. I've been away from all of my loved ones, on a work trip in Vegas, for about a week and a half and I am ready to see them.  I am ready to be around them and give/receive love. On a yoga note, I'm reading more about Chakras this morning and the Third Eye Chakra (between your eyebrows where Hindus wear a Bindi) has sparked my interest. I'm going to meditate and pray and hit my mat.

Thursday, November 16, 2017 I'm writing this in my hotel room getting ready for the last day of work in Vegas. While I've been here, I've practiced every morning (except once), and it has been invaluable to my health and well-being throughout the day.  I'm feeling happy, and motivated, and ready for action. I'll meditate and pray for 5 minutes before hitting my mat.

Wednesday, November 15, 2017 I have two more days in my hotel before I get to go home and see my loved ones. I'm proud of myself, and what I've done while here in Las Vegas.  I'm proud of my work, my dedication to my practice, my diet restrictions, and my overall behavior. I'm going to meditate and pray for 5 minutes and hit my mat. Wednesday, November 15, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this nearly done with my day as I didn't get a chance to update the blog after I practiced. Mentally, I was focused this morning and I was able to get some bio-feedback from my body and withdraw from physical strain.  My lost arm strength is almost totally back, and my backbends are strong, and beautiful. I miss my loved ones.  I've been away from all of the special people in my life for over a week now, and I can feel myself wanting to get back into their presence.  Thanksgiving is coming up soon, however, and I'll be enjoying time with all of the special peop...

Tuesday, November 14, 2017, Didn't get the time to practice yesterday morning.  No worries there.  There's always time for yoga. I'm enjoying myself while in Vegas for work and proud of the work I'm doing, and the way I'm focusing on my health in the midst of a busy work schedule. I'm finishing this post in the workroom, already showered after having practiced. I feel wonderful this morning, and the practice that I had helped solidify myself for the day ahead. The focus I have remains the same: Always be truthful Be resilient Be king Be patient Always be cool Physically I felt good on my mat this morning.  Not too much stiffness anywhere (other than the middle of my back from executing strong backbends everymorning).  My mental focus was something that I worked on, as I need every ounce of it while I'm working).  I'm going to share the version of myself that I cultivated this morning with the world. Namaste

Sunday, November 12, 2017 Woke this morning a little  bit behind schedule, and will be hitting my mat momentarily. This practice has is helping me muscle through some of the challenges that are presented to me on a daily basis.  Like yesterday, I'm going to try and shape and refine myself into a person with 5 things: Someone truthful Someone who does not take things personsally Someone resilient Someone calm Someone kind Physically, I feel very good.  My arms, chest, and shoulders have gone back to their normal shape and tone (almost), and my digestion is staying on track despite the healthy-ish salads and rich dinners I'm enjoying. Time to meditate and pray and hit my mat.

Saturday, November 11, 2017 This is my 3rd morning waking up in my Vegas Hotel while I'm traveling for work. I'm feeling excellent this morning, and am eager to go into my day. Much of my mental focus will circulate around work while I'm in Vegas (I fly home in 6 days) but I use the time on my mat to meditate and shape my mentality around a few key characteristics: Always be truthful Do not take things peronsally Stay resilient Stay calm Stay kind Those are great traits to have anyway, but they're especially useful when one is under a larger than normal amount of pressure.  Physically, I feel good this morning.  I've managed to resist all of the unhealthy food options that are all around me 24/7 and have stuck to a steady, and sensible diet; this always makes me feel good regardless of my situation.   My back is definitely talking to me, a bit, today.  The warmup I have on my mat will help shake out that stiffness.  Backbends keep you ...

Friday, November 10, 2017 Still in Vegas for work and woke at my usual 4:45AM to get coffee. I blend my morning's with work so it's challenging to carve out the time I'd like on my mat. Nevertheless, I'm going to be hitting my mat now and working through myself to bring the best version possible out into the world. Friday, November 10, 2017 (Part II) Writing this, already showered and cleaned up, and enjoying my workday. My practice balances, steadies, solidified, and strengthens.  Only good things come from it. I'm going to use what I gained in my practice as I work through my day. Physically, I felt wonderful this morning.  Slight  soreness in my back from yesterday practice but I ended my practice today with 3 strong and magnificent backbends. Namaste

Thursday, November 9, 2017 Due to other responsibilities I have, I haven't hit my mat for the past 2 weeks. Not letting that phase me and I'm going to spend 5 minutes on my mat today, praying and meditating, before I begin my practice. I'm expecting my practice top feel great and to be very rewarding. Thursday, November 9, 2017 I'm traveling for work as I post for the next week and a half and didn't get a chance to update this blog before I headed into my work day. While work is fun and focusing, I'm going to rely on my yoga practice to keep me steady while I'm in the fast paced world of a program's operations. My physical practice was great this morning!  I don't know why, but it never fails that, after I haven't practiced for a while, the first time I hit my mat is always a good one.  My body was cooperative, fluid, and strong with only a little bit of strength loss in my arms and shoulders (I'll quickly regain that). Time to ...

Friday, October 27, 2017 Woke earlier than normal this morning and am on my mat with little to no yoga motivation. I had 5 sequential practices last week and haven't really had a solid one yet this week.  Why don't I quit moping about the whole thing and sweat it out. Friday, October 27, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana.  Feeling great and feeling good.  I'm going to take this version of myself out into the world to share.  Namaste

Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Haven't practiced this week, as of yet. I'll hit my mat this morning, though I've had a difficult time getting excited about it.

Friday, October 20, 2017 Woke at my usual time of 5:00 AM. I lolly-gagged, drank coffee, watched youtube (Star Wars: The Last Jedi released a trailer and I've only watched it 2,000,000 times but needed to watch it a few more times this morning), and generally allowed myself a luxurious morning of relaxation and peace. I showered before hitting my mat this morning, something that I've heard is traditional, and I'm feeling wonderful about myself, and the practice I'm about to have. Friday, October 20, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I'll keep it short and sweet; I'm extremely proud of myself, my life, and what I do and how I do it.  This feeling of pride comes to me at times (as it did yesterday), and I temper it by always remembering that I'm a nothing, a nobody, from nowhere.  If I have any success or confidence or anything to be proud of, it came to me through my parents, from Heaven.  I'm fee...

Thursday, October 19, 2017 I did not  write a "Part I" post this morning, as I decided to lolly-gag around until it was past 6:30 AM this morning and I had to either hit the mat, or forego a practice this morning. I hit my mat. This morning's practice was remarkable.  I broke through many physical barriers and obstacles (stiffness, soreness, uncharted areas of joints and muscles that I've been timid to move into, etc.).  I was lit on fire as I moved. My mental focus wasn't all scattered but, when I focused it, I felt like I could shatter rocks with my intensity.  It's a good, and confidant feeling to have this mind-set, and I see why God doles it out in extremely  measured doses (if I was lit and burning and indomitable every morning as I feel this morning, I'd morph into more of a peacock than I already am). My backbend sequence was magnificent this morning, and ended the practice with a feeling of accomplishment and happiness.  I paid special ...

Wednesday, September 18, 2017 For whatever reason, I didn't wake up fully until 5:40 AM this morning.  My alarm went off at its usual 5:00 AM but, I felt like I needed a bit more sleep.  When I feel this way, I allow myself to continue to sleep, usually, as it means that my body needed it for some reason. I'm a bit "behind schedule" now, but that's not the end of the world, and it's not going to keep me from my mat. Wednesday, September 18, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I read from a Catholic prayer book this morning and the message was simple.  It was to always seek out, and then incorporate the will of God, into your life.  How do we, animals with larger brains, know what the will of God is?  How do we know we're not infusing the will of God with our own will?  These are questions that continually pop into my head.  The advice the book provided was to seek as much time is silence as possible....

Tuesday, October 17, 2017 Woke up feeling good this morning but feeling a little bored with my routine. When I feel that way, I try to remind myself about the good things that are in store for myself today; meals; seeing friends/co-workers, physical exercise, my work, the opportunity to spread love and kindness, etc. Those motivators can help me see through the dull grayness of a routine Tuesday, like today. I'm feeling physically prepared to practice, but I already feel a bit of soreness and stiffness in my calves and ankles from running yesterday.  The best answer for that physical tenderness is a yoga warm up followed by a routine practice. Tuesday, October 17, 2017 (Part II) Routine as it was, I will never  regret hitting my mat in the morning (and neither will you).  It's worth every bit of effort and it's worth every bit of " I could be doing XYZ right now instead".   I started with my normal prayer and meditation (5 minutes) and then went into...

Monday, October 16, 2017 Where does true, healthy pride come from?  I'm referring to the pride that you feel about yourself when you've accomplished something; I am not referring to the pride that asserts itself when someone who you don't like tries to tell you what to do. My healthy pride comes from myself and my accomplishments.  When I'm taking care of myself in a healthy way and taking care of others because I've taken care of myself, I feel pride.  I'm proud of this blog (as I close in on it's 1 year birthday), and I'm proud that I'm up on a Monday morning at 5:00 AM to hit my mat by 6:00 AM. 

Friday, October 13, 2017 The word "galvanizing" means to strengthen something.  I used that word today because, despite a week that felt like it was 24/7, I kept on top of many things that make me feel proud about myself.  Following through on those things, takes that feeling of pride, and it turns to strength.  I didn't want to do many  of the tasks I had this week, but, when I followed through with them, I feel the sense of accomplishment that makes me want to do even more; pride and happiness feed more pride and happiness. I'm going to hit my mat here in a bit, but I've re-incorporated running into my life.  This definitely makes a difference with leg muscles and the soreness and stiffness that comes with new muscle growth. Friday, October 13, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. This was a wonderful practice.  The area where I practice was cold this morning, but I felt warm and wonderful after rolling arou...

Wednesday, October 11, 2017 I woke at my usual time this morning of 5:00 AM and will be hitting my mat soon. While this blog has been nearly 100% about me, and my personal practice, I hope that you'll gain some wisdom and experience here (all with an enormous pinch of salt, as you shouldn't believe anything you read on the interwebz).  In the vein, however, check out a Men's Health article on the benefits of yoga here . I'll be hitting my mat for some Vinyasas shortly. Wednesday, October 11, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. No fear, I thought last night as I went to bed.  Fear creeps into one's life very easily, and takes many forms.  There is no need to be afraid of anything, ever, not even death.  When one dies, one goes back home to God.  I'm going to maintain that focus today as I move through the challenges and trials of the day.  On another note, I have still been listening to the awesome, tran...

Monday, October 9, 2017 Like many of us, I keep my weekends strictly for vegetating, and try to enjoy a 2.5 day break from routine, responsibilities, structure, and all the rest of it. This past weekend was no exception, and I enjoyed a wonderful, and relaxing 2.5 days with friends and loved ones. While I want to sleep in on Monday mornings, I know that, if I do, my week won't be off to as good a start as it could be. I'm on my mat as I type this, getting revved up to begin my practice.  I ran a 5K yesterday (with zero training), so I'm interested to see what my muscles are going to have to say for themselves this morning (in the past, it's usually nothing by leg and back tightness that comes from running).  We'll see how things feel on the mat.

Friday, October 6, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning feeling very well rested. Don't know what was up with me yesterday, but I was feeling sleepy and groggy around 2:00 PM.  I didn't have unhealthy food yesterday so I don't know what caused this groggy feeling. I came home after work yesterday, ate a bit of food, and then crawled into my bed to be asleep around 8:00 PM or 8:30 PM. With 8.5 or 9 hours of sleep under my belt from last night, I'm feeling fairly good and will be ready to hit my mat in 30 minutes or so. Friday, October 6, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. This morning's practice was, by far, the best this week. My body was strong, cooperative, and fluid. My mind was tame, pleasant, and controllable. Time to shower, and bring myself out into the world. Namaste

Thursday, October 5, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM for coffee and contemplation. Hit my mat way  later than I should have and only had the opportunity to go through Vinyasa A. I'm going to shower and head off to work and maintain a steadiness as best I can today. Feeling good and ready for the world. Namaste

Wednesday, October 4, 2017 Woke up on Wednesday at my usual time of 5:00 AM. For whatever reason, I'm feeling much  lighter in spirit today. Yesterday was a great day for me, even thought it started off with my mood being blue, incomplete, and uncertain.  Hard work, and perseverance really are the key to pride, success, and, ultimately, a lot of happiness. My mood this morning is naturally, brighter and more my normal state. It's 6:01 AM as I type this, and I'm "behind schedule" a bit, but I feel good an will be hitting my mat by 6:15 AM. Wednesday, October 4, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this, covered in sweat, still on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I'm feeling wonderful.  Physically wonderful.  Mentally wonderful.  Spiritually wonderful.  I feel powerful, confidant, whole, and steady. My physical practice was superb this morning.  It's still in the 70s, even though it's early October, and I practiced on my lovely new...

Tuesday, October 3, 2017 Woke feeling very average yesterday and woke feeling very average today too. What have I learned in the, nearly a year, I've been going to my mat for self-discovery. Feelings are transitory and change Feelings can be shaped and changed by oneself into whatever you want them to be Duty and Responsibility is more important than how you feel.  Be gentle with yourself and don't beat yourself up Be diligent and have an indomitable spirit and you'll increase your pride.  What do I have to be proud of.  My Job My Friends/Family/Relationships This blog It's 5:40 AM, and I'm going to hit my mat in about 20 minutes to give myself some shape and start my practice. Tuesday, October 3, 2017 (Part II) Feeling great, on my mat, after having just come out of Savasana. I'm re-piecing my mentality, body, and spirit after a jarring day yesterday (woke abruptly, no yoga, heavy heart, etc.). I feel better  than I did yesterday,...

Thursday, September 28, 2017 This will be the 3rd consecutive day that I've practiced in my new space. Physically, I'm feeling well. Mentally, I'm feeling well. Spiritually, I'm feeling well. I'm a bit "behind schedule", but I'm on my mat, at 6:18 AM, and ready to pray/meditate for 5 minutes before moving through my practice. I have a hoodie on, as today is the first chilly-ish morning in St. Louis. Thursday, September 28, 2017 (Part II) Had a great practice this morning, even though I wasn't quite feeling it. It's still be nothing but junk food for the past few days while I've moved into my new place, but I'll balance out here soon. I'm happy that I'm staying consistent in my practice. Namaste  

Wednesday, September 27, 2017 Woke up, for the third time, in my new space. This morning will be the 2nd practice I execute in my new space and, again, I have to say how much I am in love with my little screened in sun porch.  I currently have the door to the sunporch open with cool air, and the sounds of crickets creeping in. On a totally unrelated note, while I've been moving, I've been eating junk for dinner every night (sausage and pepperoni pizza, to be exact, covered in red pepper flakes, and dunked in ranch).  This causes me a little bit of stomach pain in the morning, but it makes me hit my mat a little harder; partially to "atone" for the food crimes I've committed the night before, and partially to help eliminate the dough and cheese mound that I consumed the night before. I'm still feeling motivated, upbeat, and focused.  I'll hit my mat at 6:00 AM, in 30 minutes. Wednesday, September 27, 2017 (Part II) I'm on my mat as I write thi...

Tuesday, September 26, 2017 I spent this past weekend moving and, just like when I started this blog, I'm in a new space, new apartment, and am looking forward to a new change in my life. I'm on my bed as I type this, getting geared up for my practice and meditation routine on my new sun porch!!!  My new place, on the 2nd story of a 4 family flat, has a screened in sun porch off of my bedroom; I'm literally able to open the door, let the quiet sounds of crickets/frogs come in, and enjoy my coffee while I sit and think. Physically, I'm feeling fairly well and fairly balanced; a little bloated and irregular digestion-wise, but that's to be expected (with all the moving around, I haven't had the time or inclination to cook properly, so Ive subsided on pizza for a while). Mentally, I'm feeling renewed and refreshed, and delighted with my new space.  I'm going to start my meditation/prayer routine shortly with an attitude of gratitude #trite #cliched. ...

Friday, September 22, 2017 Coffee machine acted up Wednesday morning.  Today, it's totally broke. :( Ah well, I'm having iced tea instead. It's not all  about the caffeine, but it is about the ritual I've got for myself every morning, and how I want a warm cup of something to have while my body, mind, and spirit thaw and start to gear up for my practice, and the day ahead. I'll hit my mat without it and see how I feel. Friday, September 22, 2017 (Part II) Not a great practice; not gonna lie.... I was not mentally focused, and my body was not "into it" this morning either. No big deal.  A practice is a practice.  It won't always be inspirational I'm delighted it's Friday, and I'm delighted thinking of the day I have ahead of me. Namaste

Thursday, September 21, 2017 I'm away from my laptop this morning, but I'm not away from my mat. I'm typing this introduction out on my iPhone for the first time. I woke at my usual 5:00 AM and, after an hour of coffee and sooooper deep yoga thoughts, I'm ready to hit my mat. Thursday, September 21, 2017 (Part II) Felt wonderful after my practice.  Even though I wasn't in my usual setting, away from my routine a little bit, I still had a wonderful practice.

Wednesday, September 20, 2017 When my routine gets shuffled around, for whatever reason, it can take a while to get back into the game. I'm speaking, specifically about yoga, but there's other routines that can quickly crumble if neglected for a while (work patterns, personal hygiene, sensible eating, etc.). I know that, a lot of my happiness and self-fulfillment comes from forming routines and patterns, and then sticking to them. It's 6:20 AM, a bit  behind schedule, and I'm going to meditate/pray and practice Pranayama and Dharana  for 5 minutes before beginning my Asanas and the rest of my physical practice. Wednesday, September 20, 2017 (Part II) Having just woke from Savasana, I'm feeling wonderful. Completed my full, modified Primary Series. Time to shower up, and take myself out into the world. Namaste

Went to Las Vegas for work last week.  Practiced on Thursday September 14 and Friday September 15 without posting. It's Tuesday, September 19 this morning, of the following week, and I'm feeling good about myself, even though my routine's been knocked around a little bit. My two practices in Las Vegas were wonderful, and are always a great way to help sort out any stress from traveling and drinking another towns food/water. Feeling productive and powerful so far this morning and will be hitting my may shortly. Part II I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I procrastinated this morning and didn't hit my mat for meditation/prayer until 6:30 AM.  Had a wonderful, full, and complete practice, despite the late hour. I'm feeling grounded, whole, and steady and I'm looking forward to bringing this energy out into the world. Namaste

Thursday, September 7, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM and have been moving around, busying myself with everything but  a yoga practice. Laundry, cleaning, coffee, cooking, dishes, etc.; all have taken a precedent over this morning's practice. It's 7:11 AM now and I'm going to hit my mat for some meditation and, at least a few, Vinyasas. Thursday, September 7, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat having just come out of a mini-Savasana and a mini-Practice. I dedicated my usual 5 minutes of prayer/meditation on my mat, and then went through 2 Vinyasas, and a few other poses. Time to go out into the world. Namaste

Wednesday, September 6, 2017 Had a wonderful Labor Day Weekend with family, friends, and loved ones and didn't practice once. lol I woke yesterday morning (the first day back to work) not feeling 100% and I am still not feeling 100% today.  I slept in until past 6:30 AM this morning,  and I know that my body needs the extra care I'm showing to it. I am not going to force myself into a physical practice this morning but I may hit my mat for some meditation and reflection.

Wednesday, August 31, 2017 I woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning and have lolly-gagged around for the past hour sipping coffee, bumming around on the interwebz, and giving myself an opportunity to thaw from my night's sleep.  This early part of my mornings is, by far, my favorite part of each day.  It's alone time that I get, away from any stress or complexity, that allows me to think about what I'm going to do today and how I'm going to approach what I'm responsible for. I'm physically sore from last night's Taekwondo practice, but will be hitting my mat here in a bit.  I may shake up my practice a little bit and put some new Asanas into the mix. Wednesday, August 31, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat having just come out of Savasana.  I had a great practice this morning and moved, in a focused way, through my full Vinyasa Series and into Padahstasana and Padanguthasana.  I ended with 1 upward bow, and1 bridge pose. I feel good having ...

Tuesday, August 29, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning for my coffee and contemplation #strangerthings Today will mark my first practice since Saturday morning's instructor led class. I typically take Sunday's off (Saturday is traditionally the day of rest, however), and use that day to relax and let my body rest and repair itself.  That day of rest bled into Monday, however. Today, is Tuesday, and I'm looking forward to hitting my mat and sweating it out. Tuesday, August 29, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. Today's practice was interesting. I understood that breath should be a 5 count inhale and a 5 count exhale.  From what I've been reading, it can be any count inhale, and any count exhale, as long as it matches pace, rhythm, and intensity. I incorporated this into today's physical practice, and realized that I was only truly inhaling/exhaling for a 4 count breath, not a 5 count.  While I ...

Saturday, August 26, 2017, I'm writing this on Sunday morning having had attended a class at Big Bend Yoga Center yesterday morning with 3 of my friends. I do not  ordinarily take classes and, rather, wake each morning and go to my mat with the knowledge I have of yoga (however lacking), and move through my practice by myself.  However, I believe that taking a class from an instructor every now and then is absolutely essential for adding variety, and keeping your practice dynamic and ever-growing. Yesterday's class, with the wonderful Michael Shabsin  (Attorney by day, Yoga instructor by night), was exactly that; dynamic, different, challenging, fulfilling, and re-energizing. The style of yoga that I practice is called  Ashtanga Yoga , sometimes referred to as "Vinyasa Flow" or "Ashtanga Vinyasa" yoga.  It follows a pre-determined sequence/pattern of movement and I typically don't allow for too much variation.  Ashtanga Yoga also puts emphasis on ...

Friday, August 25, 2017 It's 5:00 AM on a beautiful Friday morning.  TGIF is a ridiculous little saying but, while I enjoy all days of the week, work-days and non-work-days, it is nice to wake up and know that you've got a little 2 day vacation ahead of you. While I do like to keep busy and have game plans in mind, I do enjoy the relaxation of my weekends.  I do not  keep the weekends for chores or other things that I was, otherwise, too occupied to complete during the week.  My weekends are for sleeping in with no alarm (most times), extra coffee and contemplation time, reconnecting with family and friends, and spending longer than normal amounts of time in the kitchen making wonderful things to eat. I'm looking forward to this weekend, especially, because 3 of my friends are joining me tomorrow at Big Bend Yoga in downtown Webster Groves (a suburb of St. Louis). The wonderful Michael Shabsin will be leading tomorrow's class. For today, it's 6:01 AM and ...

Wednesday, August 24, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM and then slept for another 20 minutes.  No big deal. I'm feeling grounded, stable, and balanced, even before hitting my mat. To stay on schedule, I'll hit my mat in about 30/40 minutes. Wednesday, August 24, 2017 (Part II) I not only slept in this morning, I didn't hit my mat until 6:30 AM (30 minutes after my normal time).  I was productive, however, and used my coffee fueled morning motivation to tidy up around my place and take care of some chores that I'd been putting off for a while. When I finally did hit my mat, I began with my standard 5 minutes of prayer and meditation.  After that, I began my standard warmup.  I moved into my formal practice feeling wonderful; no aches and no sluggishness, as I felt yesterday. I finished with 3 beautiful Upward Bow poses and am writing this after having just come out of Savasana. I feel balanced, strong, beautiful, content, solid, gentle, and indestructible. ...

Wednesday, August 23, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM feeling ver well.  I practiced yoga in the AM yesterday, and went to taekwondo in the PM last night, but, despite that stretching and tearing of muscles, I don't feel too sore this morning. My back, and fronts of my hips are the only two areas that feel like they need to be warmed up gently.  I'll hit the mat in about 30 minutes to sweat it out. Wednesday, August 23, 2017 (Part II) I was not  feeling motivated to hit my mat this morning.  I procrastinated for as long as I could before changing into my yoga clothes and walking into the space where I practice.  While I had zero motivation, I did go through my entire modified Primary series, which makes me proud. Physically, I felt slow, stodgy, and sluggish.  I've felt that way before, and I typically push through it gently, but with determination.  I don't feel too  much different, now that I've practiced, but I do feel more accomplished, ...

Tuesday, August 22, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning for coffee and contemplation.  I haven't practiced since last Thursday, and I spent my weekend out of town on a camping/float trip so, needless to say, I'm sore all over and my mat is going to feel exceptionally good when I hit it. I'm at the beginning of another body detox; after a weekend of food/wine/etc., I'm easing myself back into a healthy lifestyle; for me, that almost exclusively means a healthy and balanced diet. I'll finish my coffee in a minute and hit my mat to sweat it out. Tuesday, August 22, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this after coming out of Savasana, still on my mat. I'm feeling wonderful from the physical strain/sweat of the practice (there's still plenty of garbage left in me that I'll need to sweat/work out over the next few days), and I'm delighted with how my body cooperated with what I was guiding it to do. Mentally, I'm feeling good as well.  I...

Thursday, August 17, 2017 Woke again at my usual 5:00 AM for coffee and contemplation. Time for prayers and meditations, a warm-up, and then some bro-ga Thursday, August 17, 2017 (Part II) Even though I woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning, which gives me plenty of time to thaw from my night's sleep and organize my thoughts, I didn't think I'd hit the mat, for some reason. I'm delighted I did, as always, and feel wonderful after my full modified Primary Series practice. Backbends are essential.  That's my thought for the day.  They're magnificent and triumphant and reverse the flow of time and age (figuratively, of course). I feel balanced and wonderful and am looking forward to bringing this peace out into the world to share with others. Namaste

Wednesday, August 16, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00AM this morning for coffee and contemplation.  #strangerthings I haven't practiced since last Friday as I spend my weekends breaking routine, and having a 2 day mini-vacation with my family, friends, and loved ones; that mini-vacation bled into Monday and Tuesday morning. The fact that I didn't practice with diligence for awhile would have upset a younger version of myself.  Now, I believe that, whatever I'm doing at that moment, is what I'm meant to be doing at that moment (hippie-dippie, I know), and that I shouldn't beat myself up if I'm relaxing, taking care of myself through rest, or spending my time with a loved one.  Family, friends, and loved ones are exceptionally important in one's life. I'm going to hit my mat in a few minutes, and sweat it out....... Wednesday, August 16, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I had an exceptional practice th...

Friday, August 11, 2017 Woke up at my usual 5:00 AM. Feeling good, but not great yet.  I'm going to try and change that, and view the challenges that I know I'll face today with fire inside me to burn through them.  I believe it's natural to cower from challenges (professional and personal).  While it's natural, I believe you can turn up the heat on things and view challenges in a way that makes you want to engage them head on.  When tackled this way, they can be dismantled bit by bit and are nowhere near  the size and shape you originally thought they were. 30 more minutes of coffee and contemplation (#strangerthings) and then I'm hitting my mat. Friday, August 11, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, covered in sweat for some reason (I didn't think it was any hotter in my apartment or outside than it has been in the past few days). Had a great practice which was slower and more focused than Wednesday's quick/energetic practice.  Today...

Wednesday, August 9, 2017 Woke up at my usual 5:00 AM.  It is not 6:15 AM and I'm lolly-gagging about, procrastinating before getting onto my mat. Mornings are my favorite time of day, and I want to extend them as much as possible. I'm already feeling supported, strong, and proud.  It's time ( past  time) to hit my mat. Wednesday, August 9, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat still having just come out of Savasana. Today's practice was remarkable. I meditated/prayed, as always, to start to give shape to myself, and to provide a template for what I wanted to be today.  Honest/Hardworking/Kind/Beautiful/Humble.  That's typically the shape I try and give myself. After that, I moved into my warm up (rolling on a curved back...bent-knee-forward bends...gentle backbends, etc.), and then I moved into my practice. I began my formalized routine a bit later than I usually do (around 6:20 AM or so), so wasn't going to do my full modified Ashtanga ...

Tuesday, August 8, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM.  While I'm used to my early rising time, my recommendation to anyone  trying to figure out a way to get it out of bed in the morning is 2 fold...... 1.  Have your alarm across the room from you.  Most people use their phone for their alarm so put that puppy on the other side of the room so that you have to physically get up to shut it off.  That way, you'll be half-way to staying up. 2.  Have something like coffee or tea ready and waiting for you.  I set my coffee maker for 4:45 AM so that it's hot and ready when I shuffle into the kitchen. I'm feeling good this morning, but feel like I've got some energy that needs to be put on the fire and burnt.  Time to hit my mat. Tuesday, August 8, 2017 (Part II) Still on my mat and feeling good after a light practice. Went through, nearly, my full Vinyasa Series this morning (only doing one Vinyasa B instead of my usual two), and then into most o...

Friday, August 4, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM and enjoyed coffee and contemplation. I've got a wonderful day to look forward to and a wonderful weekend ahead of me. I'm going to focus on my no fear/no anxiety/no anger "mantra" with a little more intention this morning.  I'm not feeling  anxious, fearful, or angry this morning, but I want to bring my best self out into the world today and I want to start my weekend off properly, with a honed, and refined version of myself.  Time to hit my mat..... Friday, August 4, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I went deep into my practice this morning and approached each Asana with a physicality and strength that I'm proud of.  My mental focus was good, but not great.  I realize that I've gotten a bit sloppy with controlling my mind and my thoughts during my practice.  I lasso'd my thoughts, however, and brought them back under control whenever I became awa...

Thursday, August 3, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning only to find the coffee machine full of hot water.  I'd apparently fallen asleep watching T.V. yesterday evening, groggily woke up around 9:00 PM and then shambled into the kitchen to prepare my coffee for the AM.  I remembered everything (even the filter) and simply neglected the coffee.  Dang. lol Thursday's are my early days but I'm going to challenge myself and post 20+ times in the month of August.  I've had this blog going for 9 months now!!  It's a "baby" of sorts, you could say. Physically I'm feeling good and have fully recovered from my wonderful, if not completely unhealthy, vacation.  I'm proud of how I've controlled my diet and my natural urge to eat junk food (like Dolly Parton says, " I'm a junk food kind of person at heart".   I'll hit my mat for at least 20-30 minutes this morning for a light practice. Thursday, August 3, 2017 (Part II) F...

Friday, July 28, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning but, even though it's already a little after 6:00 AM (my normal start time for yoga), I'm still lounging around, procrastinating (just like yesterday). I'll have my yoga fires lit again at some point but, like yesterday, I'm not interested in practicing, for whatever reason.  I'll hit my mat in 5 minutes or so for a practice.  Tae Kwon Do from last night hasn't left me too sore, I'm happy to say. Friday, July 28, 2017 (Part II) I will never  regret going to my mat.  Never. I went to my mat this morning with zero  motivation and zero interest in practicing yoga.  Within only a few moments of purposefully going into my meditation/prayer warm up, I had already lost all  of my procrastination and ornery attitude.  "Well begun is half done", as the saying goes. I went through my physical warm up, as I did yesterday, and then began Sun Salute A.  I did not go into Sun Salute B, o...

Thursday, July 27, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM and farted around for an hour+. I have a few minutes to warm up on my mat before I have to shower and get ready for work.  I don't know why I procrastinated the way I did but I'm not going to beat myself up. Thursday, July 27, 2017 (Part II) Despite my terrible procrastinating, I'm happy that I hit my mat for meditation/prayer, and for a physical practice. I began with my standard warm-up which, after praying and meditation, includes rolling on my back until my spine's warmed up.  After I've done this for a minute or two, I roll over completely into a lazy-man's "plow pose" or a lazy man's Kardapidasana .  This helps my legs wake up and starts to reverse the flow of my digestion. Since I haven't had a diligent practice lately, I expected my legs to become numb; they did just that and began to loose a little bit of feeling as I remained in this pose. I finished my warm up with loose fo...

Tuesday, July 25, 2017 Back to my mat after a week long vacation!  Had a wonderful break from routine (both professional and personal routines) and ate, drank, and slept my way through a wonderful week's worth of laziness. Now that I'm heading back into the world, I'm going to waking up my practice again slowly but surely.

Tuesday, July 18, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00 AM this morning.  Feeling good but not motivated to hit my mat. I'm going on a week long vacation from Wednesday, July 19, through Tuesday, July 25.  I won't post during that time. I may come home tonight and do an evening practice before going to Tae Kwon do.

Friday, July 14, 2017 Woke up at 6:30 AM this morning (an hour and a half behind my normal schedule). I probably won't have time to do a physical practice this morning and will do a bit of meditation on my mat.

Wednesday, July 12, 2017 Woke up feeling wonderful.  I had an immensely productive day at work yesterday and followed that up with a wonderful Tae Kwon Do class. I always feel a little blue and crest-fallen whenever I don't have a productive day or when I skip TKD; I'm delighted to say that keeping that blueness at bay is as easy as following through with what I consider to be my responsibility. I am  a little sore this morning.  The main area is in my middle/lower back.  This is probably due to a combination of the backbends I executed in yesterday's practice but is probably more  due to Tae Kwon Do.  The whole body is used in kicks (all movements, but felt most acutely for me in kicks). The abrupt twisting of one's spine to counter-move before you land your kick is typically a little jarring, and causes some soreness the next day. I've got my air conditioning turned off, windows open, and I'm allowing the warm summer air into my bedroom to begin my...

Tuesday, July 11, 2017 Woke at my usual 5:00am. I'm feeling happy and motivated this morning, and am looking forward to hitting my mat. Ate junk food for dinner last night so, while I'm enjoying my first cup of coffee, my stomach's a little out of sorts.  My practice will set me right again. Tuesday, July 11, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, having just come out of Savasana. I had an unusual practice this morning where my mind was moving around a lot.  I would feel strong and powerful, then anxious and scared.  I would feel certain and solid, and then flimsy and second-guessing. I've said it from the very beginning of this blog that there is way  too much emphasis put onto feelings and allowing our "feelings" to dictate how we behave.  Feelings can be the result of eating too much sodium or having sugar withdrawls and it doesn't mean that any  of the scared/anxious/powerless feelings that one is having mean any thing or that there...

Friday, July 7, 2017 Woke again at my usual 5:00AM.  I'm feeling motivated to hit my mat this morning and am happy to say that I don't have any real soreness from yesterday's practice. Friday, July 7, 2017 (Part II) Writing this after coming out of Savasana .  Had another great practice this morning and am happy to see that not much endurance or flexibility has been lost over the long 4th of July weekend. What has  occurred is a little  bit of stomach softening.  I don't beat myself up about how I look (most of the time), but I'm not looking quite as "lean and mean" as I'd like.  This has everything  to do with my 4th of July "party diet" and that's it.  The remedy?.......eat properly. I'm going to shower and take the peace I feel out into the world with me to share. Namste

Thursday, July 6, 2017 Woke at my normal 5:00am for the first time in five days.  Had a wonderful 4th of July weekend with friends and family. Looking forward to hitting my mat.  I'm going to move gently but purposefully and wake myself up on the inside. Thursday, July 6, 2017 (Part II) I'm writing this on my mat, post-practice, having just come out of Savasana. Physically, I'm delighted that I hit my mat to sweat it out.  I felt a little un-conditioned for a yoga practice (which I expect after a 5 day hiatus), but I know that, after a few Vinyasas, my blood and sweat will begin to flow and I'll "unfreeze" some of my muscles. I always feel a little too "solid" and "rigid" when I'm not practicing with frequency.  It's an interesting feeling in that I feel like my muscles slowly morph into wood when I'm not working to keep them liquid with a daily yoga practice. Finished with my 3 Urdhva Dhanurasnas to put the final c...

Friday, June 30, 2017 Woke at my usual tie of 5:00am and am feeling very good. I've lacked a bit of motivation and direction and drive this past week.  To be fair on myself, I have  been doing nothing but sitting in a training room absorbing huge amounts of high level information.  I'm excited to begin putting those training principles into practice in real life. Mentally, I had a scary and upsetting dream last night.  It's not too  uncommon for me to have a dream where something bad is going wrong that I have to resolve, so I'm not going to put too much emphasis onto that dream.  Other than that, I'm feeling rested, refreshed, and ready to hit my mat and, subsequently, go out into the world. Physically, I'm feeling well.   Slight  stiffness in my lower back but, other than that, I'm feeling normal.  I've broken through the "I'm-gonna-sleep-in-for-5-more-minutes" trend that I had the past two weeks and my internal alarm really does g...

Thursday, June 29, 2017 Woke before my usual time of 5:00am and rolled out of bed at 4:45am this morning to turn the kettle on and get ready for tea. I'm normally a coffee person in the morning and have my machine set so that, when I do roll out of bed at 5:00am, my warm, lovely cup of love is waiting for me. I ran out of coffee filters yesterday, however, and have a lovely batch of Irish Breakfast tea as a backup. Physically, I'm feeling normal and energized this morning.  Minimal stiffness/soreness (a 2 on a scale fro 1-10). Mentally, I'm feeling refreshed and awake.  I felt a little blue yesterday evening so I hopped on my bike and rode around to enjoy the sunset and lovely weather. I'm going to continue to focus on rebuilding any lost stamina/flexibility (again, delighted to report that not too much went away) and I'm going to focus internally with my 10 minutes of prayer/meditation. Thursday, June 29, 2017 (Part II) Just came out of Savasana.  I...

Wednesday, June 28, 2017 Woke at my usual time of 5:00am and, I have to say that, there's something to be said about "habits" and how we create them. I had gotten into  the habit of sleeping in until 6:30am or 7:00am.  This would leave me with no time to practice, and barely enough time to guzzle some coffee, shower, and get into work at an appropriate time. That late rising was the reason why I hadn't practiced in awhile; I would roll over, look at my alarm, and go " BAAAH !", before rolling back over again and hitting the snooze button. Getting out  of a habit, or changing  a habit, is difficult and takes focus.  Even this morning, when my alarm went off at 5:00am, my brain was saying, " go back to bed for just like.........10 more minutes....". I'm happy to say that I woke, and got started on my day. Physically, I'm feeling similar to yesterday in that I feel "overly-solid".  Again, I know that this is a result of no...