goodbye negativity

So, I take back my frustration from earlier today. I had an amazing class with two beautiful girls. And we created the energy of a hundred. So awesome. The fact that people can come do Kai Chi Do and that I can be a part of making them feel good... it's so inspiring. I just hope Kai Chi Do can do for them what it did for me, and that I can let go of myself enough to help them get there.

I'm so humbled to be on this journey.

In other news, I have a fun little life renovation to share.

It's called 7 Steps to Happy (another yogajournal find, with my own tweaks)

1) Start Your Day Bright. Instead of worrying about to do lists or work or appointments, spend some time thinking about how much you've accomplished in the past few days. Even little things like making food or spending time with friends. Be grateful that your body is healthy and carries you through every day. Enjoy a few minutes of just being happy to be alive. Make that your routine, consistently, every single morning, before anything else.

2) Smile. Whenever you think of it. No matter how bad it is. Trust your body to know what a smile means.

3) Add some mini-yoga into your day. Whenever you're overwhelmed, take a minute, stand tall and steady, and breathe. Elongate your spine, and feel grounded. If you're in a private place, incorporate some forward folds and loud exhales.

4) Use music. Music effects your heartbeat and breathing rhythms. So when you're overwhelmed, play some even paced music, like bob marley. Give yourself a minute to close your eyes and listen to the beat. Then continue your day.

5) Make tea. Take time to smell it before you brew it, to feel the warmth of the water, to watch it steep. Inhale the steam. Enjoy every sensation. Examine your first sip.

6) Go outside and walk. Pay attention to each sense individually. Everything you feel. The air, the ground, the sun. Everything you hear. Everything you smell. Build the experience around you and focus on nothing else. This is true meditation.

And finally...

7) Kiss yourself goodnight. Finish your day with a mini pampering ritual. Whether it's simply putting some nice lotion on your hands and face or giving yourself a mini foot massage. Maybe a meditation. Finish each day with a moment for you, by you. Love yourself.