I began playing with Yoga over 14 years ago, at the age of twenty. I have always enjoyed being active. Yoga seemed to be something that I could do once or twice a week, to keep me limber and open. It wasn't until eight years ago that a shift happened within my life, and I turned what once was a hobby into a lifestyle. I began to see things differently. I began to focus more on things that were important in my life, rather than what others thought were important. The relationships between my family, my friends, and God came into a new light. Becoming more mindful of my actions, rather than just reacting, has helped me to understand and forgive, rather than become frustrated and angry. Don't get me wrong, I still struggle with things every day. Yet throughout the day, I take time to be thankful for the blessings that I have in my life. Mindful movement has brought flexibility into my life in all realms. I am gracious for that. I have trained with many different instructors from ones that are well known, to not so well known. I always find something new and inspiring in each. I have also read many books on Yoga, Pilates, and fitness. Even though I have taken knowledge and wisdom in the education I have received, I believe that any type of mindful movement is a journey that we cannot find within any certain instructor, book or manual, but something we must experience and live to truly understand. Namaste' Malissa
