Rest and Introspection

My recent vacation inspired me to write about Rest and Introspection. I was fortunate to take 3 weeks off from my fulltime job, my yoga teaching, my hobbies and other responsibilities. Taking a vacation around my birthday (June 30) gives me the opportunity to reflect on the past 6 months and allows me to correct course for the remainder of the year.  
 
To rest on vacation – check. I was able to travel to places I haven’t been before. Meeting some old friends and family, as well as making new friends. I was actively resting by singing and dancing barefoot in the grass. My feet were grass stained for a week. If you know me, you know that’s a big deal! I was fortunate to lead a yoga class in a 13th century church at a castle in Italy. What a humbling experience to guide a group of athletes through a restorative sequence in such a historic and sacred space. I was able to watch sunrises and sunsets on the hilltop of Perugia. Relaxed by the pool, surrounded by breathtaking views of the country’s green heart and the neighboring medieval hill towns. Practiced yoga under olive trees and found time to go within.
 
Introspection on vacation – check. I completely unplugged from technology, no social media or TV. The breathtaking views invited to sit and be still. I spent time with myself and my thoughts. I was able to reflect on the past 6 months, reflect on my professional life (career), my personal life (my relationships), my passion (teaching yoga), and my hobbies. Mid-year is a good time for me to check in and calibrate the direction I am going. It is usually around my birthday when I am looking back at the past year, and start to manifest (ask, believe, and receive) for the new year. Visiting Assisi, one of the biggest historically important towns of Italy had a profound impact on my self-reflection. I was able to kneel at the tomb of St. Francis, feeling the powerful energy. Followed by viewing the frescos by Giotto – all masterpieces in this beautiful basilica.
 
So many emotions and impressions were experienced during this vacation. But the essence of this trip and my direction for this new year is so beautifully expressed with the St. Francis prayer: Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.

This prayer, or mantra goes along the same lines of yoga philosophy. Being renewed and refreshed I am looking forward to sharing my passion for yoga. I am excited to announce on July 27th, I am leading a yoga practice at the West Valley Arts HQ Gallery. Their current exhibition is titled “Introspection”, and my yoga sequence is based on this theme. The sequence will promote mental clarity and focus and cultivate a sense of inner peace and well-being. Mark your calendar and keep an eye out for the event flyer and invite.
 
With gratitude,

​Oma