photo header-1.png

Monday, February 27, 2006

happy (almost) women's history month--let's bloom!

“i change myself, i change the world.”~ gloria anzaldua

welcome to women's history month and a continual celebration of all things feminine. march serves as a beautiful reminder of the abundance of choices available to those willing to push edges and create opportunity. a favorite mantra of mine has been, "edges pushed, boundaries held." i believe this ties in well to a muse focused on the celebration of women.

notice during your next yoga practice, when you are being challenged to do one more chaturanga or to soften into the asana of the month, do you become frustrated with the request or experience gratitude for being challenged? i see accepting challenge as being synonymous with empowerment. your ability to push edges both on and off the yoga mat makes for a less stagnant and more dynamic existence.

spend some time reflecting on areas in your life that feel stagnant and in need of change. it's spring and time for rebirth. for example, how long have you been complaining about your job, relationship, or living situation? what small steps can you take to begin making changes in these areas? or is the shift needed simply a change in attitude and perspective?

empower yourself with the realization that you are in your current situation by choice, and getting out of any position that no longer serves you is also a choice. as we all know, the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. let your desire for change jump-start this journey today.

in addition, bring awareness to areas in your life that beg for you to exert power and hold boundaries. putting the needs of others before your own is a sure way to lose momentum in your own life direction. remember the importance of holding boundaries in your relationships and life experiences to conserve your power for pushing the edges of your own choosing. spring is a perfect time to take stock and do some housekeeping.

being a yogi is to be mindful of actions on a larger scale—a more global view. how can you assist in a continuation of freedom for all people? for example, donate to an international women's fund, volunteer at a domestic violence or homeless shelter, start a business catered to women, read a book about a powerful woman, mentor a fellow female, participate in a big sister program, head a fundraiser that supports a cause close to your heart, create a community for like-minded people.

celebrate the women in your life. celebrate the woman you were. celebrate the woman you've become. celebrate the woman you strive to be. celebrate the women who paved the path for your freedom. may march shower you with pride, gratitude for those that challenge and empower you, and an activist attitude for improving those areas that aren't at full potential, both individually and globally.

use march to bloom what has been dormant and germinating below the surface all winter. happy blooming!

 photo sig.jpg

No comments: