Yoga, Love, Life

Some of the most successful people whose lives line the pages of books to inspire the individual looking to change the landscape of the world wrote about happiness. So what in the world do we do to live a yogic life full of love? Inspired by a commercial for guns, the Beatles wrote:

"Happiness is a warm gun." - The Beatles

That gorgeous Lennon and McCartney collaboration was questioned for its moral representation. The radio stations banned the song stating that the lyrics were clearly about shooting heroin. Lennon swore up and down that this was not the case. He stated the song was just about banning guns.  This is one of the many reasons I love the Beatles so much. In heavy times of major gun violence we are all still looking for happiness. The air is a little thicker, and the songs on the radio are a bit less politically driven, but essentially human nature prevails.

Yoga teaches us to make space. We look to spread the mind, the body, the breath. We look to take over the present moment with stillness. We look to connect to the people practicing with us, and the earth around our feet. We look to open our hearts, hips, and shoulders. We want to find this elusive happiness, but when we look inside that joy is already within all of us. We just need to unleash its beauty, and let it shine.

“Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” ― Dr. Seuss

Letting go is a big part of finding joy, and happiness. Of course that author who helped to shape our childhood imagination is really a yogi at heart. Let it go, and move forward. Yesterday is behind us, and the future is beautiful as long as you can live with a light and loving heart. This is of course easier said then done, but that is why we call yoga practice!

“Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.” Ghandi

Our thoughts are a pervasive part of our joy. If we think we are sad we are releasing all kinds of hormones to elicit sadness. What are your thoughts from the moment your eyes blink open each morning, or even before. Observe their occurrence and decide how you would like the thoughts to effect you. Again, practice makes - well happy.

I will leave you to perseverate on all of the wise words of the yogis that have come before us.

“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” - Dahli Lama

Namaste