This weekend I was fortunate enough to share some of the best that the Sierra Foothills has to offer with an old friend – wine tasting, gourmet locavore food, and views that go on for miles. The whole experience was a treat, and a much-needed opportunity to decompress from a long week at work. Sitting here back at my desk on a radiant Monday morning, the experience makes me ponder the role that routines play in our lives -and how we can use awareness of our routines to enhance our personal growth.
The weekend really rejuvenated my spirit, which sometimes feels dulled after long days at the office. Was it the fact that I was treating myself or that I was taking myself out of my routine? I think it was a little bit of both, and I think there’s a lesson in there that we can incorporate into our daily routines to make a positive change (It’s what Wally’s is all about!). The very act of incorporating change can be invigorating, even if that change is incorporated into something that is routine – like work. Changing the way I complete an assignment at work; sitting up straighter, breathing deeply, and remembering how what I’m doing right now relates to my long term goals – these small efforts at awareness both clarify perspective and build discipline. Little changes like these have a way of spilling over into ‘bigger’ parts of our life – our attitudes, our health, our relationships and our performance at our jobs. That kind of awareness is what Yoga is all about – and practicing Yoga extends beyond stretching our bodies. Stretching our minds and practicing awareness builds the discipline and character we have to fall back on when we struggle – and only during struggle do we grow. Its a fact of life – whether you’re struggling to integrate exercise and diet into a busy and demanding schedule, whether you’re trying really hard not to bark at the kids when they act up – practicing awareness in the ‘in-between’ moments will help you achieve your goals. It works for me.
Get in touch with us on facebook and twitter to join the conversation. I’d love to discuss awareness, yoga, change, and whatever else is on your minds.
All the best,
Hudson