Dear yoga,
Thank you for teaching me how to breathe. It wasn’t until I was holding those long, difficult poses that I really learned the power of my breath. I had never thought of it before. I had heard the phrase, “take a deep breath” when I was stressed out, but I never truly understood it’s depth until I found you. You taught me to slow down my short, anxious breath, which in turn slowed down my anxious mind. Now, even when I’m off my mat and out in the real world, I know that peace is just an inhale and exhale away.
Thank you for being my safe space. When I’m with you I know that I can completely be myself. My armor falls. I come back to me — all there is is my breath and my body. You cultivated a sacred space. I am safe to fall, safe to fully surrender, safe to let down my guard. I know that whatever happens you will be there. Feelings and people will come and go, but there you are, steadfast and secure. I can count on you day in and day out.
Thank you for helping me find my voice. My love for you led me to become a teacher. To push myself past my quiet nature and to stand confident in my ability to lead a room. You taught me to let go of the pressures I placed on myself and to simply let my authentic light shine. You challenged me to trust myself and to stay true to myself. Connecting with students has quickly become one of my greatest joys. You are love. A space where passion, love and understanding are painted across the room, bringing together individuals from every background. We breathe together as one.
Thank you for healing me. You cast out the chains that anxiety had weighed me down with. You taught me to create space in my mind. You brought me into the present moment. You showed me that I’m not trapped inside my own mind. You illustrated that I have the power to clear my mind of the hurt and pain, that anxiety isn’t forever. Although it isn’t always easy, you taught me how to let go. You freed me.
Thank you for giving me strength — emotionally, physically and mentally. You taught me that with perseverance, my mind kind can settle. You showed me the power in releasing all of the emotions and experiences I had gripped so tightly to my chest. You gave me the confidence to try the hard poses. You allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and into my strength. You gave me the confidence to feel the strength of my body and my breath. You gave me the eyes to see the power and light within me.
You’ve given me more than I could have ever imagined. This once yoga skeptic has fully embraced all of the learning you have to offer. I truly learn something new each time I step onto my mat. Thank you will never be enough.
x,
Morgan