“Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens…”
6.29.11
YOGA
I think my first yoga class was when I was 15 or 16. However, I did not follow up with it regularly until 2 years ago when I was 18. As far as exercising goes, it’s something I need to do every day for my physicality and mentality. I run, walk, hike, kickbox, take bar method classes, jump rope, do pilates and yoga. As long as it’s switched up and makes me move, I try it. Anyone who works out on a daily basis knows that once you start, you have more energy, breathe easier and think clearer. For some it may be easier than others, but for anyone who struggles with the thought of throwing on some sneakers (which i admit even i go through sometimes) needs to not underestimate the power of their mind. I learned that once I removed the “choice” factor from exercise it became easier. I just looked at it as if it wasn’t an option. As if my life depended on it. Human beings have a fascinating mindset when it comes to survival. If someone told you today to get up and go for a walk, run, or bike ride, because your life was relying on it, you’d find the strength somewhere to move those legs.
Where does yoga come back into play with that rambling of motivational thinking? It is everything. It teaches you the power of positive thoughts. It’s the one form of exercise where both mind and body truly have to go hand in hand. Refusal for any form of failure is an empowering thought. So if you’re stressed like most people, or want an hour (or hour and a half!) of time where you don’t need to speak, touch your cell phone, or answer an email, go take a yoga class. It does something to your psyche by bringing out the most proactive part of yourself.
3 favorites in no particular order:
1.MoviesIf I’m ever in a bad mood, sad, or in need of hope, all i have to do is take a trip to the movie theater. (Netflix helps if i cant get out and see one.) But there’s something magical about the theater. Always makes me happy.
2.Books
Another amazing escape. The best kind because you create the film in your imagination. I’ll start a list at another point. And i pray that people remember to buy books still not just “ebooks” for your kindle etc. Thats great if you cant fit 10 books in your bag, but there is something lovely about the feeling of paper when you turn the page and closing it after you’ve finished that last chapter. Personally, Barnes & Noble will always be my favorite place.
3.) Coffee, Chocolate, Tea and Yoga
Yes I love them all. Because while I am a Health Fanatic, I also believe in the Balance of Life and that means listening to your body and not being an “extremist” of any kind. Love my coffee in the morning (starbucks blends, 2 teaspoons sugar, and frothed skim milk). Love my dark chocolate. Tea is calming and so is Yoga. They both balance me.
The rest:
Writing, Thinking, Photography, Eastern Philosophy, Laughing & Crying (you can’t appreciate one without knowing the other), New York City (on a rainy and a sunny day!), Mangoes, Sushi, Salads, Avocado, Carrot Cake, Fluffernutter Sandwiches, HoneyCrisp Apples, Bike Rides, Meditation, Baths, Candles, The Smell of Fireplaces, Cherries (but not cherry flavored candy-except yummy cherry tootsie pops), Clouds, Trees, Flowers,the Sound of Snow, and the Sound of Silence.
