My first ever yoga class was my freshman year in college, a hard-to-believe 14 years ago. My dedication to the practice has ebbed and flowed but I’ve always really enjoyed it and have felt the benefits both internally and externally.

I’ve gone to countless studios, been on 2 yoga retreats (with the 3rd taking place over Labor Day weekend, and hopefully a 4th in December), and completed yoga teacher training. Despite all of the hours I’ve spent in downward facing dog, I am an imperfect yogi.

I can’t turn my mind off during meditation.

My feet go numb if I sit for too long.

My hips are as stiff as the tin man. 

I can’t turn my neck in the opposite direction as my legs while lying down.

I can’t look up during triangle for more than 30 seconds.

I can’t stay longer than a second in crow. 

My headstand and handstand leave something to be desired. 

Yet…

I LOVE yoga.

Yoga makes me HAPPY.

Yoga makes me feel COMPLETE.

Yoga EXTENDS my life.

Yoga DE-STRESSES me.

Yoga PUSHES me, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally.

Yoga TAKES me places.

Yoga CONNECTS me to people.

Yoga helps me find ACCEPTANCE.

Yoga helps me be good to myself in order to be good to others – my mantra, AHIMSA.

Yoga helps me FIND my deeper, higher, spiritual self.

Yoga INSPIRES me to do my best and be my best.

I am ALIVE when I practice and because of my practice.

I may not be the perfect yogi, but yoga is the perfect practice for me.