Every time we meet an experience, a whole process is set into motion. We process sensory impressions and generate thoughts, doubts, and alternatives. We discern, discriminate, judge, and make decisions. We identify the experience as 'mine' or think, 'This is happening to me.' This process helps us navigate the world, but it can become detrimental when our judgements are conditioned by habitual patterns that do not serve us. 

Quietness is something we can experience when we are very still in the body, mind, and heart. The quietness that I am reminded of is the kind I have experienced in unexpected places. 

This is a very interesting Sanskrit word. It refers to the quality of being innate and natural; to naturalness and the ease that can come with it. But in the context of our yoga practice, What is natural? What is innate? 

I once had the opportunity to attend a modern dance performance where I sat very close to the stage. The dance movements that seemed still from afar revealed their dynamism up close. Especially when the dancers held certain positions, I could see muscles engaging throughout their bodies to maintain the poses. The balance they were maintaining was not static at all.

Every June my teacher offers a series of virtues to contemplate and practice. This year we are exploring them all. I have been learning a great deal, not only about the virtues themselves, but also about the ways I am already practicing them and consciously choosing to continue doing so.

My teacher said that the practice of yoga has its seasons. I remember how my yoga practice used to be when I was in my 20s and how it is now. It has gone through so many seasons.