Quite simply, I do yoga for my family. There is some truth to that saying, "If momma ain't happy, ain't nobody happy." I have a herniated disc in my back. Getting out of bed every morning is painful. Practicing yoga, even just a forward bend or two, every day makes getting out of bed the next day possible. But I get more than physical benefits from yoga. I am much calmer after I practice Salamba Sarvangasana (supported shoulder stand). I handle temper tantrums and whining with a smile on my face. When the kids yell, I don't yell back. I feel powerful after practicing Salamba Sirsasana (supported head stand), like I can conquer the world or at least those last few evening chores. Rather than make the same mistakes day after day, I take time to reflect on how my actions have made me and those around me feel. I consciously make an effort to correct my bad habits by replacing them with good ones.
Yoga has made such a positive change in my life. I am excited to be sharing it with others. I want my students to not only do yoga but LEARN yoga. I want students to learn the proper way to execute the asanas (poses). I want them to feel comfortable performing "their pose". However, my classes are no cake walk. Performing asanas correctly means making changes in the way you sit, stand, walk, move, breathe, and even think. It means realigning your body to the posture it was intended to have. From day to day this can be exhausting and even a bit painful, but the long term benefits are immeasurable. Your body will feel better and your mind will feel calmer.
So whether you are brand new to yoga or an experienced practitioner, I encourage you to drop in for a class. Who knows, maybe you will smile through the next temper tantrum be it from your child, spouse, or boss.
Namaste,
Gretchen
