Yoga has been called a "breath practice" by many experienced yogis. That's partially because many styles of yoga link breathing and moving. But it's also because the breath can reveal the truth about our condition, even when the external form of the body does not. The breath never lies!

When we practice yoga, our hope is to approach our edge in each pose, while keeping focused and centered, with the breath full and steady throughout. You can use the breath to sink deeper into the pose making it as intense as you release to. If you're ever unsure whether you're doing too much or not enough, listen to your breath. If you can't keep breathing evenly in a posture, it's a signal that you should back off to a simpler version of the asana—or take a rest.

This is also true of our daily lives. When you find yourself feeling tense, stressed, or overworked, try checking in with your breath. If it's even, calm, and rhythmic, then you're probably going to be OK. If it's choppy, short, and strained, then take a break, find a moment of relaxation, and wait for it to return to normal.

Just Breathe.........Cyn

Do you ever look at an another yoga student in an awe-inspiring pose and think to yourself, "I would never be able to do that!" or "I wish I could do that"?

Your not the only one thinking that. Most yoga students can relate to being envious, overwhelmed or discouraged when they see another student doing what seems to be an unobtainable pose. Instead of concentrating on your own shortcomings, come back to your breath and try to focus on the potential in your yoga practice. If not physical, then certainly spiritual. Think of how far you have come on and off the mat.

There will always be exceptions, most intermediate and advanced yogis didn't come out of the womb with the abilities to do those awesome postures. They used yoga as a tool to gradually improve their flexibility, strength, and concentration. Just like you're doing! Remember, yoga isn't about being able to shape your body into a pretzel. It's about what you learn about yourself while you practice on and off the mat. This is what truly matters.

Just Breathe.....Cyn

Sita Ram....It's the new year!! Many of us take this opportunity to cleanse, change something, begin something or quit something whether it be physical or emotional or both. Our physical body seems to be at a high priority for most people at this time of year. So diet and exercise become part of that change. But most of us don't do this in a mindful rather but a systematic one. With everything going on in our lives, we rarely make time to eat mindfully. We eat on the go, at the sink, in cars or at our desks for the minutes we can spare. But when we eat without noticing and enjoying our food, we miss one of life's greatest pleasures leaving us unsatisfied and graving something more later. We have allowed that which should nourish us to become that which causes us stress.

The next time you eat, take a moment to take a breath, relax and really taste your food. Stop what you're doing, sit down, chew slowly savoring and noticing the flavors, textures, and smells of the meal in front of you. Express gratitude for the health and nourishment it provides. You will become fuller and more satisfied as you eat, signaling the brain that your stomach is full which will make you eat less.

Over time, this ritual can improve your digestion, your weight and overall physical and mental health. Your diet will become more natural and nourishing. You will gain more energy and think more clearly. Bon Apetito!! Cyn