The humble door

May 15, 2020, I received my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training certificate. The completion of the training signified an end of a period, and simultaneously stands for the start of a new one. I have learned so much but realize that I know so little. Therefore, I will be a lifelong seeker of knowledge. 

The "Why" behind the Yoga teacher training was to share my passion with the community. I wanted to show that Yoga is for everyone. Modern Yoga focuses on poses designed to stimulate inner peace and physical energy. There is so much more to Yoga besides the physical exercise, therefore difficult to summarize in a paragraph. 

The way I like to explain it (in a very broad sense): this very old system can help you live a fuller, better life. To get to oneness, there are 8 different pathways (8 limbs of yoga). 

1. Yamas: What not to do
2. Niyamas: What to do
3. Asanas: The exercise 
4. Pranayama: The breathing exercise
5. Pratyahara: Withdrawing your senses
6. Dharana: Focus
7. Dhyana: Meditation
8. Samadhi: Oneness

As I mentioned before, I continue to seek knowledge, deepen my understanding, and work on self-improvement. These past 3 years have taught me a lot about myself and my community. I experienced highs and lows, gains and losses, but mostly a test of patience. I had to accept the fact that my style and personality may not speak to everyone. I had to learn to wait for the right opportunity to come my way. Not to be discouraged while waiting. A very humbling experience! 

Recently I was able to participate in a Japanese tea ceremony. Such a memorable time for multiple reasons (I might write about it in another blog). As all participants made their way to the tea house, we were introduced to the humble door and the proper way to enter. This small entry way allows equality among the participants. Regardless of your social status, your job title, your income, etc., all must bow down to enter. This was such a meaningful experience, reminding me how humbling life can be. 

While waiting for the right opportunity to show up, humbly accept the here and now. Continuously work on self-improvement to be ready when opportunity knocks at your door. I am beyond excited to share with you that as of June 2023 I have the opportunity to share my passion with my community. Our city opens its first Yoga studio, and I am part of the teaching staff. This will be a humbling learning experience for sure, but I am ready for the challenge. If you would like to learn more about the studio and the amazing staff visit Home - Elements yogaaz

I am going to close with Patanjali: Yoga takes you into the present moment, the only place where life exists.

Humbly,
​Oma