Wednesday 20 January 2010

Today's Issues - Tomorrow's Freedom

Recently, I went to get my hair done and brought with me two magazines for the three hour stay at the salon - Oprah and Yoga Journal. It seemed that every other page of the Oprah magazine highlighted talented, smart, and exceptional women who still struggled with their weight, their looks, or their self-esteem. These stories touched my heart because I can relate and because many of my clients can too. In Yoga Journal, people shared about how their yoga practice helps them find peace and freedom from addictions, blockages, worry, pain, and fears. I can relate to this too as yoga has been a path for me to lighten my mind, body, and spirit for many years.

One article in Oprah had both of these topics in one article. A lady who is 80 pounds overweight and has a life in shambles is taking on a 60 day hot yoga challenge. She says she does not just want to renovate her life, she wants a “tear down.” She felt this would be possible with the inner and outer work she would do in this yoga challenge. I am so proud of her and impressed by her understanding that the weight is just a symptom of the deeper issues swirling around in her heart.

Reading these magazines was a confirmation from the universe for me that I am on the right path. Also, that helping people love and accept themselves and their bodies is a valuable mission to be on. The weight, food, body, and self-esteem issues that I want to help people address are important, deep, spiritual, and relevant. After all, in the end our obstacles are our path. Today a self-acceptance issue, tomorrow healing, freedom, and enlightenment.