Allen Ginsberg once said "We're born in bodies, and that in itself is a vulnerable situation." And a situation to be explored again and again, every day of life. All of our accomp-lishments, our responsibilities, our joys and sorrows, come back to living in this body, with whatever particular challenges it gives us. 

Image credit: John Poppleton

Yoga is the most sacred way I know to honor, appreciate, and fully experience this body. It's possible to live in a body for many years and not be at home. The exploration of embodiment is one of the great adventures of life. 

Yoga is unique among spiritual practices because it is based in the body, and unique among body practices because it incorporates an integration of our knowledge of reality into an ever-expanding consciousness.

The body, mind and spirit carry knowledge, wisdom and truth.  The body, mind and spirit also carry terror, anxiety, and pain. With the intention to be present to one's own moment-to-moment experience of a bodily-based sense of self, we can hold ourselves to physical and psychological healing.

Caring curiosity, authentic interest and compassion are the ways to develop a yoga/movement practice that lowers depression and chronic pain and strengthens the immune system. Sensation is the language of the nervous system, so when we intentionally turn awareness toward bodily sensations, we enter a realm of repair for our hearts and souls.

One little assignment for the rest of your life: Consciously intend to notice sensations and feelings throughout your body with an attitude of wonder, curiosity and appreciation. This is a recipe for the renewal of vitality and aliveness.