What I've realized over the course of a couple years is how rare 'physical' peace is to come by. I don't know how many people suffer from stress which in turn affects the way you sleep, the way you feel, and probably your over all attitude, but I'm sure the statistics are high.
I've always been a fan of yoga, although I haven't ever practiced it regularly, because of time, lack of experience, well and motivation. My mind tends to jump around like a rabbit on lsd which prevents me from being what I want to do, which is to give a perfect Sun Salutation or maybe the perfect Paschimottanasana. Now perfect isn't doing the pose perfect, I'm sure everyone could do a Sun salutation with no problem. The goal is to fully be in tune with your self and your god, whoever that might be. The goal is to quiet the world, focus on what your body needs to be healthy. If people consider our bodies to be these miraculous gifts then shouldn't we treat them so? No matter our age or weight we need to turn around a love our selves and love our bodies and I think it starts with focusing on them, taking time out of our busy day to take care of ourselves spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally.
Gurmukh Kaur Khalsa has a couple of good points that I want to point out. She said "No other animal sleeps through sunrise. The cows and chickens are up and about. But humans sleep in! Getting up early will keep you young." "And service is another great way to stay young. If you have no idea why you are here, if you are confused, you won't feel fulfilled. We all have a purpose. Ask what it is that you are supposed to do. if you serve you don't have to worry and you'll always be taken care of...Serving others is one of the best ways to stay young....try new things...be attentive to what you eat....eat whole foods and organic veggies and fruits. Having a garden and growing things keeps you connected to life. We have four dogs, so I think having pets is great. And stay social. Its important to celebrate and connect". "The yoga is just part of the practice Yoga is life cake with out the frosting: Somethings missing. you need meditation. Its the frosting. "Gratitude is another really important practice-seeing how even challenges are part of your path....Learning forgiveness is key. If you hold grudges and resentments, then you get bitter. It shows on your face and in your organs. And you get old in your mind. So be grateful and forgiving. Thats the only way to truly stay young and happy." " There are upsides to getting older. Now that I'm 67 I get a 10 percent discount on Wednesdays at Whole foods. thats great. And I really like getting the discount at the movie theaters too".
Anyways, with all this being said I conclude with a 40 days and 40 nights experiment and I encourage all those to join in as well. For 40 days I will begin and end my day with my normal religious practices a long with at least 20 min of yoga. I will focus on what I'm grateful for in a home made-grateful journal. And I will never end my nights on the computer or the tv.
