First Class Free

JULY 8, 2008:  My Father, Enrico, spoke to my brother and I through his example and discussion about the difference between "Living to Work" and "Working to Live".  This speaks to an integral practice of yoga in that if we let life come from the heart (think less pocket book, more feeling) then we set forth a PACE for ourselves where we enjoy and honor the process of life.

Thich Nhat Hanh speaks to this when he writes "In the West we are very goal oriented.  We know where we want to go and we are very directed in getting there.  This may be useful, but often we forget to enjoy ourselves along the route."

His words remind us that LIFE IS NOT A RACE.  We don't have to RUSH on the mat or off the mat. A pacing that allows us to savor life lets us be more fully present.  We don't want to go at such a break neck speed that everything is a blur.  We are in charge of our lives so we can choose to live making an easy EFFORT, that means without strain.  You too can work in a way so you can LIVE more fully! So today keep these powerful Mantras handy and repeat them to yourself as needed:

I won’t wear my effort on my face

I don’t let my effort overwhelm my breath

I pace myself to enjoy my life practice