Patanjali gives us the Yamas, the ethical principles and restraints that lay the foundation for practice. These are five rules borrowed from a Jain text that predates Yoga. If I cannot apply this stuff specifically to the daily fabric of my life, I’m not sure I want to invest my time in studying it. So, I’ve made an attempt to see how the Yamas apply to my life especially as a parent.

Sometimes, we get stuck on a gatekeeper for a long time. This is fertile ground. Here, in the midst of frustration, we have an opportunity to ask ourselves some questions like, “Do I WANT to do the work (even if it requires so much more of me than Flexi Jim over there?)” and “ If I NEVER get past this point, would I still have reason to get to my mat each day?”

I know that inner voice that insists, "I am inept," "Everyone else is doing better," or "I should be better by now." I've been there too, and it serves as a shield for self-preservation. It's pretty hard for someone to tear you down if you beat them to the punch.

Enjoy the thing itself. Enjoy it in your mind and heart and body. Go as far as you can. Play. Feel free to overdo it.

Recently, in response to this very description, I explained yoga's deeper contribution as a philosophical ideology that explores the relationship between the "right" and the "good."

Start recognizing yourself as your most dependable friend who consistently shows up for herself and gain control over your life as you change the narrative from 'I don’t have time' to 'I prioritize what matters most.'

Take back the reins from unconscious, automatic thinking – those whirlwind thoughts (chitta vrittis) that keep on spinning!

Tristhana aligns with three of the eight limbs of yoga: Asana (posture), Pranayama (breath control), and Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses).

A yogi engages in her responsibilities and acknowledges that action is essential for progress and fulfillment.