A practice of change in the New Year

There's no doubt that some things are meant to be. However, in order to experience those we have to welcome change into our lives. Change is an unknown agent, making it difficult for us to embrace it. We often cling onto old habits because they feel safe. When we are open to change we are better prepared to direct change internally.

Yoga teaches us to welcome the inevitability of change, to be curious about where our practice on the mat will take us and what our daily lives will lead to. A simple breathing exercise I use often can help you keep up with ease the constant rhythm and change in your life:

In a comfortable seated position (you can start against the wall so your spine is straight), close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing. Observe the breath as it enters and exits the body. Breathe and exhale through your nose. If that is uncomfortable, breathe in through your nose and let the air out of your mouth with a deep exaggerated exhale. Rest your hand on your belly and feel the movement of your breathing. On each exhale pull the belly in, and press the breathe out completely. Relax your belly on each inhale-we hold so much emotional baggage in our belly- by letting go.

Be ready to let go the old and make room for the new, as this is the only way to create a new space for change in your life.