It’s been a breahless summer and folding in a few new rituals has been very anchoring. SInce I’ve been home from Cambodia, I try and start each day on my porch, usually just as the sun starts to rise. Me, my warm mug of water, a blanket and pillow and if I’m lucky I sleep a bit more and wake to a strong blast of sunshine and the day in full motion. But just to be out shoeless, in shorts and tee shirt feels so freeing… a bit of deep breathing… and the birds…and no Morning Joe.
And then there’s yoga on Monday’s at the Birchwood School in town. I’ve been away from yoga for many years but it’s just been waiting for me to return and maybe this is the absolute best time to be back. I found a great place to park, take a sweet, but short walk to class, I have my particular spot in the room with my mat, a blanket for sitting, blocks for standing poses and a great teacher who can fill a class like no one’s business.
Often I’m there on Mondays with my friend Bonnie and our teacher often calls us out with cheers… ” the Bonnies are looking good” . Bonnie B could care less, but I’m a sucker for attention and my ego rises… but yesterday I was on my own and happy to be there… and maybe it was my very best yoga class ever… just letting myself go…breath filling my mind and body like a sweet wind…
As class ended, as I rolled up my mat, returned it to its bag, delicately placed the blanket in the back with the blocks I didn’t need and then walked with the mat under the mat, Betsy stepped out to me…
Bonnie you were so present today. I was watching you.
Yes, I felt it.. thanks so much.Besty, I loved it! Loved being back with yoga…
It’s been a breathless summer and it’s not over yet…
Good to be back in my big life…
Digital Bonnie 
The sense of restfulness in this piece is very real. Very freeing, just in reading it. I appreciate your honesty: “I’m a sucker for attention and my ego rises” – this made me smile. Happy that you found such breathing time in your breathless summer.
Very peaceful, but cultural transitions can be jarring. Glad you are finding peace.
The first two weeks were murder but now it’s chill!
What a great way to start the day, Bonnie. Peace and tranquility resonate throughout this piece. A great sense of whatever the day throws at you can be met head on and conquered.
Perfect to return to yoga
Yes, even if I’m working on very little sleep today… sun is shinning… what else do you need?
Love that you’re starting your day on the deck. I’ve been so busy this summer that I’ve neglected my deck time. Your post reminds me that it’s time to remedy that with some deep breathing and time with the birds.
I’ve been away from my yoga habit for too long. Your reflection is inspiring! BTW, I love your porch! It looks so inviting!
Sounds like you’re finding worthy antidotes to breathlessness in mindful spaces (porch, yoga studio) for conscious breathing. Keep up the good work 🙂
Reading this Friday morning after a busy first week back to work, in the quiet of my own home…and this post echoed that peaceful quiet. I hope to find a porch someday to try and start my morning your way; sounds lovely!