When we free ourselves from disap- pointment and expectations, we can feel lighter both physically and mental- ly. For example, when we let go of the idea that we have to look a certain way we can start to enjoy our body’s current state. When we let go of self-inflicted criticism like wishing for thinner thighs and instead focus on appreciating that our legs are strong and help take us places, we will celebrate our bodies. When we practice releasing frustrations and negative self-talk, we are more em- powered to move toward our goals and a positive change takes place.
Impermanence It takes a brave heart to realize that change is everywhere and unavoid- able. Life and the universe we live in are in a constant state of flux. Often we resist change because of our fear of the unknown. When we are holding a yoga posture that we desperately want to release, we are urged to remember the concept of impermanence. You won’t have to hold the pose forever. So while you are holding it, feel it, experience it. Appreciate the moment for what it is. This helps to create connection with the idea that we are always moving, evolv- ing and learning. We are reminded that we always can shift our mindset and release negative thoughts and old wounds. The practice of yoga helps us
silence the negative thoughts so we can begin to embrace self-acceptance. Letting go and choosing acceptance enables us to start speaking to ourselves with the same love and kindness that we give to those whom we love and care about. Yoga can help foster body awareness which in turn can help cultivate acceptance and appreciation for the body that is our vehicle for this life. When we let go of ideas that don’t serve us, we can clear space for a new path of self-discovery. By turning our awareness inward we end up practic- ing our happiness instead of chasing it. After all, happiness is an inside job.
Laura Kallen, local yoga instructor and founder of Creative Wellness Products, has been practicing yoga for over 15 years. For more information, visit
LauraKallen.com.
inspiration
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Intentions for the New Year by Wayne Dyer
hese daily practices will help you move toward Spirit in your thoughts and actions.
Commit to at least one daily experience where you share something of yourself with no
expectation of being acknowledged or thanked. For example, before I begin my daily routine, I go to my desk and choose my gift for that day. Sometimes it’s just a phone call to a stranger that’s written to me, or perhaps I order flowers or send a book or a present to someone that has helped me in a local store. On one occasion, I wrote to the president of the university I graduated from to start a scholarship fund; on another day, I took a calendar to the yard man; on another, I sent a check to Habitat for Humanity; and on another, I sent three rolls of postage stamps to my son, who had just started his own business. It doesn’t matter if this activ- ity is big or small—it’s a way to begin the day in-Spirit.
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Become conscious of all thoughts that aren’t aligned with your Source. The moment you catch
yourself excluding someone or having a judgmental thought, say the words “in-
Spirit” to yourself. Then make a silent effort to shift that thought to match up with Source energy.
in your home, car or workplace. The “I” is your ego identification. Your life is Spirit flowing through you unhindered by ego—it’s what you showed up here to actualize—and is infinite. The “I” that identifies you is a fleeting snippet.
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Dedicate your life to something that reflects an awareness of your Divinity. You are greatness person-
ified, a resident genius and a creative master—regardless of anyone’s opinion. Make a silent dedication to encourage and express your Divine nature.
Excerpted from Inspiration: Your Ultimate Calling, by Wayne Dyer, with permission of Hay House, Inc.
natural awakenings December 2011 17
In the morning before you’re fully awake, and again as you’re going to sleep, take one or two
minutes of what I call quiet time with God. Be in a state of appreciation and say aloud, “I want to feel good.”
Remind yourself of this state- ment: My life is bigger than I am. Print it out and post it strategically
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