Yoga In My Backyard

I am not a real surfer. In fact, I’m not even a good swimmer and don’t feel very confident in the water. The closest thing I’ve ever done to surfing is stand-up paddle boarding! But I am often drawn to the idea of navigating LIFE like a surfer riding the waves. Getting up every day and jumping on that board; at times floating and bobbing for awhile just hanging out until a big wave comes, then rising to action to negotiate the ups and downs, twists and turns. Sometimes falling off, sputtering and floundering, and other times, staying up with skill and precision. Sometimes feeling so out of breath and upside down that my bearings are totally lost, doubting whether I can do this at all…

Sometimes there are those painful moments of loss like something has fallen off my surfboard and out of my life, down to the depths of the sea below or blown away in the wind, never to be seen again. Other times there are the joys of success and reward and feeling so stoked after an intense ride. And then there are those times where I’m just going with flow on that imaginary surfboard, feeling so connected with my surroundings and my breath and everything is falling in to place. I am letting things fall into place…stepping out of my head and out of my own way to let my soul shine. Moments where it is magical and awe-inspiring.

Maybe we are all “soul-surfing” through life, and the key is to keep getting back on that surfboard no matter what…to be resilient. To remember that there are fellow soul surfers out there to support one another. To ride the waves with presence and with just the right balance of strength and softness.

Today was our last yoga class at the Manotick studio as we break for July and August. I always enjoy using these summer months to work on my own “soul-surfing” through personal yoga, meditation, and being in nature. Stay tuned to this site for more info about fall classes, starting Sept. 8, 2019, and if you’re interested in my women’s yoga retreat this September, click HERE for more info as there are just a few spots left. May you all have a safe, happy summer!

And to all you REAL surfers out there…hang loose and rip that Perfect 10!

Clark Little Photography, Hawaii