Wednesday, April 2, 2008

Yoga and Aging

"Time flies, when your having fun," but does aging sometimes make you feel sad or slightly depressed? Yoga classes have given students a new appreciation of life. The realization that the "clock is ticking;" appears to be a path of physical and mental limitations for some of us. As we age, will we be less mobile, less wise, or a bit slow on our feet?

Let 's discuss why; as you continue to practice Yoga, you will age gracefully and happily. How many times has your Yoga teacher told you to be present for practice or to "live in the moment?" Yoga teaches us to live right now as if it was our last day on earth.

Since we are living at the moment, we must give our lives purpose, meaning, and not be afraid to take a chance. Never look back with regret on the life, spouse, or job you could have had - if you only took a chance.

What is the worst that can happen? Nothing will be different than it was the day before. In the words of Alfred Lord Tennyson: "I hold it true, whate'er befall; I feel it, when I sorrow most; 'Tis better to have loved and lost, Than never to have loved at all."

This brings to mind, wisdom, which comes with age. If we had only known what we know right now, things would be different. Well, there is no time like the present, so get all your knowledge together and take action this second.

Who cares how long you have been on this earth? There are no medals given for lack of action. Jesus once said, "Rise, take up thy bed, and walk." The miracle at the pool of Bethesda required action.

Yoga teaches us to take action and enjoy life at the same time. Life would be a lot happier, if we had less anxiety and worry.

"Why has Yoga become so popular?" Newspapers, and local news reporters, often ask Yoga teachers this question, but what is the underlying truth? The fact is: Yoga classes are a sanctuary for students, from the every day stress and anxiety, which everyone feels.

There are so many matters for us to be frustrated over. Relationships, work, traffic, finances, children, personal history, and the fear of losing something, are just a few of the factors, which can trigger a panic attack. Our minds are racing around all day, and do not rest from worry, even when we sleep.

How do we stop the cycle of worry? How do we learn to calm down? One way to make progress is to practice Yoga in local classes, but you will learn to take your Yoga practice anywhere. You can breathe, sit up straight, walk in good posture, and be mindful at any time.

Now consider this: How many problems can you solve at once? You may be able to multi-task, but in reality, you must solve problems one at a time. As a result, you can write a list today and prioritize tomorrow 's challenges. You can even add hourly deadlines to them, if you wish.

This method will give you the "big picture." You will notice that you stop worrying, when you start solving. Too many people worry about the "small stuff." Take organized action, and let God handle the details. People who continually take action are a very small minority, so you will be in "good company," as you progress toward positive solutions and objectives.

Lastly, accept that "Rome was not built in a day." Do not stress yourself over goals, objectives, and progress. Yoga teaches us that each day is an adventure to look forward to. Do what you can, and move forward - even if it is just an inch at a time.

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