What Does Your Yoga Practice Mean To You?

What is this practice of yoga? The reasons why we originally came to our mats are diverse and different for everyone. I can hardly remember why I began practicing yoga- it's as if yoga has now always been an integral part of my life. Through the years, this practice has evolved from a completely physical practice to a practice of body, mind, and spirit integration, which is still in progress. My increased physical flexibility has been a stepping stone to increased mental flexibility. Learning to breathe again (how did I survive all those years without breathing properly?!) has created a foundation for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being to which I may return over and over again. When I come back to my mat again and again, I feel a sense of peace and relief. The lessons that I learn about myself on my mat travel with me off the mat. The practice of yoga has supported me through the many different situations of my life. I have come to learn that yoga practice is more than just "doing" poses and relaxing. It has become a daily practice and a way of living.

I'm interested in listening to your thoughts. Let's begin a conversation of sharing. Why did you begin the practice of yoga? What does yoga mean to you? Thank you for sharing!