The yoga "warrior" and the "happy baby"

Yoga invites us to be authentic and show up with all of our humanity - our troubles, aches, imbalances and pains, and for that reason it is immensely humbling and also healing!

On any given day, you might come to the yoga mat, feeling out of sorts. The practice helps to reorganize and realign our bodies, giving us an experience of more wholeness and freedom. For this reason, yoga has held my interest for so many years. Everyone of us - students and teachers alike - have something to grapple with and can utilize the yoga practice to reorganize and attune to the physical and psychic needs of the body and mind.

Yoga encourages us to find the polarity between the “warrior” who steps into personal battles but also transforms to become like the “happy baby” who delights in more ease and joy.

Within the practices of yoga there are several techniques we use to create a sanctuary for transformation and healing. Postures give a structure to find our ideal alignment, resolve tension and manage energy. Breathing techniques regulate and balance the nervous system. Mindfulness and meditation teaches ways to improve concentration and leads toward creative, open awareness.

Sharon Epstein