Yoga has been a large part of my life for a few years. It has helped build my strength, flexibility and confidence, both on and off my mat. It became such a positive influence in how my mind and body felt; and “discovering my true self”, that I was intrigued to learn more. I was a sponge—soaking in technique, philosophy and spiritual awareness.

Yoga has given me so many things that I’m not even sure where to start.

The most obvious place for me is to talk about the mental aspect of yoga. Almost from day one, yoga is the place where I go to quiet my mind. Do you ever experience your mind racing in circles or as I like to say, running on the hamster wheel? Often my mind is like that, but with yoga I have learned how to focus on my breath and quiet the chatter.

From the very beginning, I would tell people, “I can’t explain it, but yoga does something to my mind. I’m not sure what it is, but it is very peaceful and I like it.” The minute I walk into The Yoga Loft or onto my mat, I feel peace and serenity. I am able let go of my day and focus on the present moment.

Yoga is an inside job, not an outside job. “The inner without the outer has no form and the outer without the inner has no meaning.”

Yoga is about balance; the attempt to bring all aspects of life, mind, body and spirit, into symmetry.

There are so many things in life that I can beat myself up about: how much money I make, whether or not I am a good enough mom, if I am going to get done everything that needs to get done, and the questions go on. Yoga has helped me slow down and focus on this moment. I only have this moment—right now.

Learning how to be still and quiet long enough to hear the truth within myself is one of the top benefits of yoga. It is a discipline that starts in the studio but expands to everyday life. Just like any habit, yoga has to be cultivated. I can’t just magically wish it so, it takes dedication within me by practicing meditation, yoga and self care.

I am healthier in my mind, body and spirit than I was a few years ago and although I’ve implemented a lot of other healthy practices in that time as well, I know that introducing yoga into my life has been one of the big pieces to the puzzle.

My heart lives in gratitude and gifting others with this wonderful experience of peace and balance. I will continue to be a student of the practice and am deeply grateful for all the loving wisdom my teachers have shared and continue to share with me.

I am passionate to teach Flow, Yin and Restorative. Flow helps our body to feel purified with deep breathing—helping to build strength, calm, and peacefulness, while increasing energy, both in mind and body.

Yin and Restorative is much needed today in terms of hectic lifestyles—helping to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting calm and balance while improving flexibility, and releasing negative energy to provide space for positive energy.

Come join me at The Yoga Loft. My goal is that you step off your mat feeling refreshed, nourished and balanced.

Namaste

Charlene Wilson