Where you do practice yoga?

Of course, if you are receiving this e-mail, it's likely that you have been to BYS Yoga at some point! But, I'm thinking beyond that.... beyond what studio you go to. Do you practice only when you are on a yoga mat? Do you practice only in a studio setting with a teacher leading a class? Or, do you practice by yourself in a slightly dusty corner of your bedroom floor with piles of laundry stacked around you (I did that this week and it was fabulous, by the way!)? Do you practice in your car when you are stuck in traffic? Do you practice in line at the Giant Eagle (I'm not talking chaturangas and handstands, just mindfulness... awareness of your body and breath... maybe some eye contact with the person at the checkout)?

Can you practice yoga ANYWHERE!?

I've been of the mindset that, "YES, you can practice yoga anywhere!".. but truth be told, I've had quite a few hangups around where people have been holding yoga classes lately.

And then I was asked to teach a class at a bar.

You know how your struggles and challenges are sometimes mirrored back to you? I found myself looking at my reflection and saying... "Well, hello, judgement - nice to see you again!!"

After saying yes to teaching the class, I've worked really hard the past few weeks coming to terms with myself about it. Asking if teaching at a bar makes the class I would share any less yogic? You know, I'm thinking not. What I have come to realize is that I need to be more accepting and willing to share the yoga that I truly value and love with anyone who shows up at 9:00 a.m. on a Sunday morning regardless of the venue.  And, I need to be more open to others who are doing the same.   

That's how I'm going to practice MY yoga at a bar. 

Namaste,

Kristi