Your Energy and Vitality That Comes From Within

Now that we are back in action in Monday Morning Yoga, I'm again reminded of something I love to see in a group practice: the generative energy of asana!

Since asana simply means posture, you are actually in an asana right now as you sit (or stand) and read these words. And how is your seated posture? Do you succumb to gravity and slouch, or is there a lift within you that, at first, takes effort, and over time gets easier?

When we forget that we can be our own engines of energy, we tend to shrink down and collapse a bit. Our breathing gets shallower as our diaphragm has less space to move and pull oxygen into our lungs. We get tired, even sad. Then core muscles grow weaker and aches and pains ensue.

But you are generative! You have "the power or function of generating, originating, producing, or reproducing." ~ Merriam-Webster Dictionary.

Just try this with me:

~ Whether you're sitting or standing, interlace your fingers on the crown of your head.

~ Now pull down on your head.

~ As you pull down on your head, push your head up into your hands like you're trying to grow taller.

~ Take a deep breath in and hold briefly as you continue to pull down and push up.

~ As you exhale, keep the height and space you created in your torso. Notice how you feel.

That's your own energy creating energy!

You are an engine of possibility!

But how often do we focus on possibility and what's going well in our lives? In some spaces it's even a point of pride to know how much we have to worry about and how traumatized we are or will be. Well, in this season of delight, regardless of what the world says, I'm for noticing what is being generated that is good, exciting, restorative, and uplifting. That's the energy I want to have: amazement, joy, and celebration. (After all, we'll be much more useful in the world where the hard parts are if we're generating energy rather than draining it.)

Winter is a season of possibility because things aren't growing yet. I invite you to join me in reflecting not only on what's happening, but also what's possible. Consider clearing your mind of the way it's always been and open to new ideas and ways of being in the world and how you might contribute. If you spend some time now generating energy, ideas, and excitement, the fruits will bear out in time. They almost can't help it!

This is the idea behind my upcoming April retreat at Retreat Ranch in Marble Falls, Texas.

Blossom and Bliss: A Women's Yoga Retreat for Springtime Renewal.

Beneath a waxing crescent moon and surrounded by wildflowers, we will consider the seeds we have sown and recognize what is blooming all around us and in our lives, fostering gratitude, amazement, joy, and celebration.

The amazing accommodations at this fancy glamping property are waiting for you to come and be in the springtime of your energy. I have some exciting plans in store, and you'll hear more about it as time goes by. Grab or send your friend/mom/sister/sister-in-law/coworker/cousin/aunt/neighbor and come enjoy some peace and amazement at the good parts of life.

Renew your spirit and remember you are a generative being!

May you stand tall, breathe deeply, and be that amazing and creative creature you are.

Much love,

Jess