Introduction

Where do I start? In my yoga practice, in my life, in everything. We all face this question at some point or many points in life. To be frank, I am not sure where to begin with this blog. I want to write for the purpose of finding clarity in my thoughts; to ask questions and seek the answer all at once.

This blog will be about yoga. I can promise you that… and it will also be more than that, in a very undefined way. 

Yoga is woven through my entire life. It is not just a hobby. It does not exist in its own lane. Yoga is not just a series of poses. It is a rich history and philosophy, which are the foundation and pillars of the practice. What the western world thinks of yoga is a very small part and by no means am I trying to lessen the importance of the physical practice. It is important, but it is not the top of the pyramid.

A metaphor for asanas,(physical poses), is that they are the surface of the ocean that is yoga. Nowadays there is an abundance of yoga classes that are advertised; Ashtanga, Hatha, Kundalini, Yoga Nidra, Vinyasa, Iyengar, Power Yoga,  Rocket Yoga, Hot Yoga, Goat Yoga, Thai Yoga, Acro Yoga, and so on. Personally I have deep respect for both traditional and non-traditional yoga practices, so long as there is honesty and authenticity in the practice. One can find inspiration both in the discipline that is required in following tradition and in the curiosity that causes one to break away from tradition. 

My background in history and anthropology will heavily influence my research. Woo! Finally using my degree! I hope my dad will be proud. Regardless of my fathers affections, my background is important so readers will understand that I am a nonlinear yoga practitioner. Meaning I do not follow a tradition. I do not have a guru that I learned from, that learned from their guru, that learned from guru… and so on like a family lineage. I love to learn from the world around me; science, various cultures, history, nature, my community and friends. My personal and professional practice are influenced by all aspects of my life, and I think I am better for it. 

I am looking forward to exploring yoga through the lens of history, anthropology, and personal experience - woven together. My approach is nonlinear, curious, and ever-evolving. Being upfront - I do not have all the answers, but I have the willingness to seek.  

Evening stroll in Garden of the Gods with Maddie.

This blog is where I will share stories, ideas, reflections, and insights of this practice that exists both on and off the mat. Thank you for being here. If anything I wrote in this piece resonates, I’d love to hear from you. Let us grow together.