So last month I set this strict schedule about how I was going to approach my yoga practice. The Virgo in me loves order and control. Relaxation and letting go haven’t always been my strong points. I mapped out days, times and teachers. That schedule has since been thrown out the window. I stuck to it probably a week, week and a half. The schedule was thrown out partially because of work life, partially because of social life. However regardless of having stuff to do, last month I saw the studio at least twice a week and at home practice at least once a week.

Through just going to class either at the beginning or end of my day I realize at this point in time; my journey is not about days, times or teachers. My journey currently is about openness and removal of fear. When I go to the mat ready to learn, play and grow, I have a joyful experience. When I go to mat with the mindset of, “I made to class, checkmark on schedule,” I get less out of my practice. Sometimes I feel just as wound up as I did before practice.

With this new understanding I am enjoying Ashtanga yoga very much, no longer doing Bikram and I am intrigued by Anusara. That’s all for now. Happy practicing.

© Rashida Bartley