Eye of the Hurricane

We join spokes together in a wheel
but it is the center hole
that makes the wagon move

We shape clay into pot,
but it is the emptiness inside
that holds whatever we want

We hammer wood for a house,
but it is inner space
that makes it livable

We work with being
but non-being is what we use

- Laozi in Tao Te Ching

Fall Fitness and Friends

As Summer transitions into Fall gracefully, it was time to make the most of warm afternoons filled with sunny warmth and gentle cooling breeze. I took my mat and headed outdoors for an afternoon of yoga. Recently, I had the good fortune of assisting my mentor and her class on the lawns of a beautiful winery near my house. The icing on the top being live music by a really talented musician, who does not believe in recording his music.
Being in nature really makes your yoga practice special. Like, in twisted chair, as I gazed skyward, I saw an eagle gliding and just like that, I wanted to do a bird pose and fly with that majestic creature.

Quick tips to remember while heading outdoors,
- Bring a thick mat especially while doing your practice on uneven surfaces
- Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen
- Dress in layers, have a jacket handy for savasana
- Be prepared to be stared at by curious onlookers
- Watch for bugs
- Bring along a friend and make it a really special practice