Reflections on warmth, practice, and steady presence
As I travel to the other side of the world, I may be in India physically, yet I am still holding space for my sweet studio and the energy of our community. I hear that Mother Nature is offering a deep freeze back home. From here, I can only extend the warmth of my heart and gently remind you that this, too, shall pass.
Places shaped by centuries of devotion and stillness. Practice, remembered.
We are hearty beings, capable of meeting obstacles as pathways for learning and growth.
There are many challenges unfolding right now—in our country and across the world. We are witnessing extremes everywhere, and even Mother Earth seems to be mirroring this through frozen terrain and stark conditions. Ice appears in many forms, and the tension continues.
In moments like these, let us return to the fundamental values of humanity as articulated by the great sages. Let us remember to keep our hearts warm and soften the armor of fear. A sincere practice allows us to reconnect with our truest self.
The central focus of yoga is the mind. The body is external, the soul eternal, and the mind stands between them—neither fully inside nor outside. It is the meeting place of body and consciousness. Problems arise when the mind is unsettled, for it influences both body and awareness. The teachings remind us that “the mind is the ground for both bondage and liberation.”
Where we place our attention matters. When our focus is consumed by fear—by what we hear and see in daily news feeds or by our inner chatter of worry and doubt—the mind becomes restless, like a jumpy monkey with no chance to discern what is true or wise. Such a mind forgets its innate strength and loses the protection that comes from one-pointed focus.
A steady light, rising through the haze.
I am in India to deepen my practice, so that I may return home inspired—and inspire others in return. To remind us that, together, we can rise beyond the frozen layers of the body and awaken Agni, the inner fire in our bellies. We can move prana with intention and guide it gently toward the heart.
When the mind is calm, harmonious, and concentrated, we gain clearer understanding of ourselves and one another. We become better human beings, guided by a moral compass rooted in warmth and inner light. A tranquil, one-pointed mind is inherently creative.
From this space, we can stand up for humanity with the right words, at the right time, spoken in the right way—not from anger or fear, but from the conviction of the heart. A peaceful mind listens deeply and heeds the quiet voice of the soul.
Though it may be frigid outside, at Yoga Among Friends we gather to uphold the integrity of our community—with love, compassion, and care for all beings. We are stronger in this shared focus than in confusion or fear. Yoga offers us a path through asana and meditation.
When the mind becomes still, what happens? Yoga Sutra 1.3: Tada drashtuh svarupe avasthanam—we rest in our true nature. We see clearly that we are exactly where we need to be.
Keep the heart warm. Keep the inner fire lit as a gentle glow. And continue to be inspired as we create a peaceful home—together.
A gentle reflection:
What practice, place, or ritual helps you return to steadiness?
You’re always welcome to share in the comments below if you feel called.
