My life has been hectic the last two weeks while preparing for finals in my senior year of my undergrad. As well, holiday season has arrived and life is moving fast as 2015 approaches. I have been making efforts to incorporate yoga and meditation into my busy schedule for relaxation and solitude. Yoga and meditation has always been my peace of mind- my escape from the material world and into my heart and soul. It really keeps me balanced during a time where stress and anxiety may easily seep into my world and distort my clearly envisioned path.

I spent this weekend with my god-daughter, who has shown and taught me true love. She is so intelligent, beautiful, and graceful. I call her my yoga baby, as I started incorporating yoga into her life around 8 months. This weekend I also gave her a hand-me-down oceanic blue cushioned yoga matt. She repeated, “my yoga matt!” over and over in excitement and for a clear understanding that she actually had her own yoga matt now. A wave of joy washed over me. My yoga baby! I asked her what color it was, she announced blue. I asked her what else was blue, and hinted to her the ocean. She jumped up in excitement, “Rhode Island!” Her memory is incredible. Here are two quick pictures I was able to snap of us reading our yoga pose book, in which I have her go through and chose what pose she would like to try. We did a lot of  downward dogs. It is safe to say it is her favorite pose, and she adores “wagging” her tail! She is too darn cute! I apologize for the quality of these pictures, as I rearrange my tiny little space. I am gently manifesting in 2015 to have “space” for our yoga practice and invite others to join!

I recommend this time of year you make time for yourself. Whether it is reading a book, writing, exercising, or cooking. Whatever it is that you do for yourself, do it. Give to yourself.  Maybe it is yoga, which can be practiced at home yoga, on the go “work” yoga, or an hour at a studio. And don’t forget to eat your fruit and vegetables!