Eight years ago I started yoga. Since then my life has transformed beyond recognition. I brought my two precious sons into the world, I was diagnosed with Lyme disease, I suffered a huge and shocking heartbreak, I discovered a new much deeper level of spirituality, I got divorced from the former love of my life … Through all these profound changes, one thing has stayed consistent - my dedication to yoga. I would go as far as to say that yoga has been my saviour, my guide and my anchor. Through good times and bad, yoga has helped me become the woman I am now.

Reflecting over this past summer, I feel that the most profound changes have taken place.  My mind, my body and my soul feel so aligned, connected. One key indicator is found in my yoga practice, and most importantly, my commitment to yoga. I maintained my practice throughout the summer. Usually the school holidays are an excuse not to ‘show up’ for myself, but this year, that wasn’t an option for me. I needed yoga, and I went out of my way to ensure that I practised every single day. 

The difference this focus has made to me is amazing, my mind has relaxed as it accepted my new way of being and this new lighter way of seeing allowed me to let go of the anxiety and tension that I have held onto for the longest time. All the work I am doing is finally paying off, I am finally seeing the power of my thought-tools and the strength of the physical rituals that together allow me to heal myself from the inside out. 

Each practice plays its part, and they all have their own influence, but it has also become very clear to me that yoga is at the root of this more peaceful version of me. Yoga continues to teach me the most about who I am and who I want to be. It gives me discipline, consistency, self-love and self-acceptance. Yoga is how I meet this version of  myself where I am at and that despite the physicality of yoga, everything comes from the power of the mind. When we relax the mind, the body follows and after that anything is possible. 

Yoga has brought me home to myself, and for that I will be eternally grateful.