In a word . . . Reflections in Uncertain Times (from 2020)

No one could have imagined or foreseen a worldwide pandemic claiming the lives of countless loved ones and throwing our world into a chaotic spiral. Yet, here we are and where we go from here is the key to our very survival.

Recently, I asked for a "one word check-in" from friends and family. It shouldn't have surprised me that many of the responses (the majority, actually) were reflections of confusion, sadness, loneliness, frustration, and grief. This is new territory for us and many feel abandoned by our community leaders and elected officials. Trust is at an all-time low.

Through the practice of yoga, we learn about the importance of self-care, balance of body, mind, and spirit, and our inherent connection to all around us. Our thoughts, intentions, and actions are powerful and the energy we put out into the world can make a significant difference.

While it's easy to dwell on the frightening and negative news we are given each day, there are so many stories of hope, resilience, caring, and compassion. I believe that we are more powerful than we recognize and by harnessing our goodness and loving kindness, we have the opportunity to see this pandemic as an Awakening of Connection, a transformation of the human spirit.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, sad, angry or frustrated I encourage you to look at how you are spending your day and create some healthy, healing shifts in what you are exposing yourself to on a regular basis. While social media is a great way to stay in touch with family and friends, it can also become a drain on our emotional energy, drawing us into a distraction outside of our present experience. News sources have never been more accessible and we all want to stay up to date on what is happening, yet, too much information can overwhelm us and create anxiety and increased cortisol levels resulting in stress overload. Missing human connection with friends and family can feel very isolating and lead to binge watching shows or movies, overeating, self-medicating through alcohol or other drugs, and can even trigger depression and panic attacks.

This is why our practice is so essential. The simple act of breathing mindfully can calm our nervous system and bring us back to the present moment. Moving and stretching our bodies releases toxins and sends necessary synovial fluid to our joints. I encourage you to check out the infinite resources available now to practice with remarkable teachers all over the world. Through technology an ancient practice reaches out to people at a time when we most need to feel our connection and a sense of peace.

This website is my way of offering and sharing the tools which are helping me during these tender times. Like you, I miss being in physical spaces with those I love, getting daily hugs from friends and students, and sharing the practice together at Asheville Community Yoga. Please remember that despite any distance we may feel, our community remains strongly bonded together. Reach out to one another and to me. After all, as Ram Dass so beautifully reminded us, "We are all just walking each other home."