The Seven Rules

Well, we’ve made it to the end of the seven “Rules of Yoga, Rules for Life.” Seven seemed like an auspicious number to bring this journey to a close. But the journey never really ends, does it? Thirty years ago I first got serious about studying yoga, and I know my list would have been very different at that time. I was young, I was so sure of myself, and I had a more flexible body! A little ways down the road apiece, here’s the list I’ve been writing about the past several months. Check out the dates to remember and review:

1)    Have fun. Please show up to practice with a smile on your face and joy in your heart. It promises to be one of the best parts of your day. January 6

2)    No pain, no pain. If it hurts, don’t do it. Does this mean give up? No way! Move slowly and intentionally, even if you have to keep the range of motion small. Your body wants to move, just do so smartly. January 20

3)    Listen to your inner teacher. You’re the only one who lives in your body so you know it better than anyone else. If you learn to listen deeply, you will know what is right for you—in yoga and in life. February 3

4)    Set an intention. It’s good to know why you’re showing up for your practice. You’ll get more out of it if it’s more than just another item on your to-do list. February 17

5)    Practice regularly, by which we mean daily. It doesn’t have to be a 90-minute practice to bring you benefit; even 5-15 minutes a day will support muscle memory. Your confidence will build as you give your body what it needs each day. March 3

6)    Trust the process. Yoga has been around a long time for a reason—it works. Whether you’re flowing yoga poses, sitting in meditation, or moving prana through breathing, all of these practices have been tested and are yogi-approved. March 17

7)    Beginner’s mind. Every day is a new day. When you bring new insight and awareness to each day you are open to an incredible array of possibilities. April 7

And now it’s time to ask yourself: Which rules of yoga speak to you at this time in your life?