I wish I had something profound to say. Maybe it’s not a bad thing: my brain is taking a much-needed break. After two back-to-back retreats, I had to shut down for a few days. Don’t get me wrong, it was a great ride, but it’s also intense in lots of ways. I needed to go within, and nurture that for a bit with some solitude, some silence, some home practice. I also needed to reconnect with my family. 6-year old has had a fabulous summer full of playdates, horseback riding, rock climbing camp, and swimming lessons – not to mention our visit to the Garden of 1,000 Buddhas – but I know she’s been missing me when I have to be away. So why do I do it? Because ultimately, the rewards go way beyond loving my job. I may not have anything profound to say right now, but my gratitude for what I do runs deep.
After every retreat, I am showered with thank you notes and gifts, and each and every one brings me to tears. I do not say this to brag. It humbles me. I am grateful that we can have this kind of impact on women’s lives. The experience inspires me, as do the women. We come together for this whirlwind of horses and yoga, each on its own the catalyst for “emotions too complex to voice yet too important to ignore”, and combine it with the power of Montana’s natural beauty. On top of all that, there is connection. We recognize, we remember that we are all connected (and I’m not talking about Facebook!); the horses, the yoga, the nature all weave together and whisper the unspoken command: connect. Above all, we come together to connect with each other in ways I never dreamed possible. This feeling of connection inspires me to be a better mom, family member, friend, yogini; it inspires me to seek how to uplift not just my own life, but also the lives of others.
I was once asked in an interview who my heroes/role models are. I answered, my yoga students. One of the best things about making yoga my career is the inspiration I get from teaching people. I’m constantly amazed and inspired by every individual and his or her life experiences, challenges and goals. We have so much to learn from each other, and it’s powerful to recognize that. Namaste.