“No one is wise by birth, for wisdom results from one own’s efforts” -Krishnamacharya

Wow, it feels really good to actually sit down and write at my computer again. It's definitely been a while and so much has happened since my last entry.

They say that life is what happens to you when you're busy making other plans. 

I couldn't agree more. For example, just a couple of weeks ago, I knew that there was something missing. I began to realize that I was constantly trying to "plan" out my life without stopping to smell the roses. I became attached to things that no longer served me. I let negative emotions get to me, which created a sense of imbalance within my life. It was unsettling and made me feel uneasy. I held on to things that no longer served me with the hopes that they would bring me eventual happiness.

These excuses seemed to resonate more and more each day. Over time, I could feel myself becoming increasingly bitter. 

Okay, so anyone who personally knows me is well aware that I love preaching about the importance of living a happy life. I mean, that's pretty much what this entire blog is about!

So, what do we do when things no longer serve us? We change them. We create our own happiness. We learn from ourselves and other people... and that's exactly what I did.

On January 6th, I began a new adventure:

YogaWorks 200-Hour Teacher Training Intensive.

I finally decided that it was time to let my inner yogi out, learn a few things about myself, and share what I learn with others.

Before I began my training, I felt all sorts of nervousness and excitement. I honestly had no idea what to expect except for the fact that I was about to get my ass royally kicked.

Well, we are officially a week and a half into our month intensive and I was completely right regarding the ass kicking part (but not in a bad way). To me, this training is not simply about physically challenging yourself. It is also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually demanding as well.

Let's break down the typical 8 hour day:

7:30-9:30am: 2 hour Asana practice

9:45-noon: discussions/posture labs/teaching assignments/etc.

Break

1:00-4:30pm: discussions/teaching labs/etc.

Our discussions range from yoga philosophy, anatomy, modifications, variations, specialty topics.

With the amount of reading, homework, quizzes, and prep for our 4 part final exam... it definitely feels like I am back in school. Only difference? I actually love what I'm studying.

The group of women above have influenced me in the most positive ways. It has only been a week and a half and I already feel like I have known them for years. The amount of support, love, and wisdom I have received from each of them has helped me realize what we are all capable of doing: as women, friends, and teachers of our craft.

I feel more clear minded, calmer, happier, and healthier. I have a better idea of who I want to surround myself with and what it is that I want to do in my life. 

From tadasana, to supta padangustasana...from the philosophy of the yoga sutras, to the history of the Brahminical period... from the serratus anterior, to the femur bone... from samskara, to samadhi... from Patanjali, to Krishnamacharya.... from counteraction, to complementary action... from the differences between Ashtanga and Iyengar....

I have only begun learning what will be a permanent life journey for me...and I couldn't be more thankful.