Be Thankful

Thanksgiving has come and gone, the big day full of friends, family and food.  As this time of year usually does, it got me to thinking of what in my life there is to be thankful for.  Given they are much different than they were last year, and most likely will be different in the future, but it's the idea of taking the time to actually do this simple task that is important.

We live in such a nonstop society it is easy to let the present moment slip away. We are constantly looking into the future, seeing and hoping that it will be better than the present. Even if something great happens to us it is hard to be still in the present moment; to be thankful for it. I urge you to take the time right now, stop reading and reflect on what you are truly thankful for in your life, and smile. (I mean it, try to take a few moments for this)

Now that you have reflected on you life's gifts, keep them close to you and remember these gifts at least once a week. When the day, or week or person standing in front of you is stressing you out, take a deep breath in, focusing on the inhale from start to finish, exhale it out completely, and bring your awareness to the present moment. There is always something to be thankful for, what can you be thankful for here?

In our physical yoga practice when the legs start burning we think, what is here to be thankful for, my legs are killing me! Immediately the mind goes from the physical sensation to other thoughts, robbing us of the present moment. A lot of energy, emotions and memories are stored in our legs, which explains the desire to be anywhere but in the present moment feeling this intense sensation. If we are going to try and reflect on what we can be thankful for in our lives, being present is the best way to do it. What is more amazing than being alive, and having the ability to feel our body? Warriors are stubborn people, but aren't we the most determined and dedicated as well? What we learn about ourselves on the yoga mat directly correlates into our everyday lives. I challenge you to be present in your practice, learn from yourself, and take it off the mat into your life.

Presence brings the awareness of the Warrior Within strength