I am going to California this month to participate in the Yoga Alliance Conference where I will be teaching a class in Body Awareness. 
Planning this class made me think back to my first introduction to mind/body control. Thinking of people who may be reading the PYS blog, I thought, "Maybe there are people who would like to know more about my personal yoga path."  So here we go...a little personal information about the journey from young mother to Swami Padmananda.

My journey began with an introduction to conscious relaxation, although I didn't think of it as yoga at the time.

A mother of five, my first two children were born while my husband was in the military during the Vietnam era.
These military hospital births were not calm, spiritual, family moments; my husband was not there and I was surrounded by strangers.

When I became pregnant with my third child, I wanted to have a different experience.  I heard about a Lamaze class which helped you to participate in your labor and child's birth.  My husband and I decided to drive an hour each week, (not a common option 42 year ago), to take classes with a nurse/ Lamaze coach, who focused on body relaxation and the breathing practices which aid in childbirth.
I learned wonderful relaxation response and conscious breathing exercises. They were immensely helpful. I loved feeling in control of my body at a time when I had previously felt no control at all.

I continued to do the relaxation  practices after I had my baby.  They helped me to relax and sleep better after a busy day with three children...I was then 23 years old!

My path to yoga took a 2 year hiatus as I continued to raise my family.  
I will continue my story in my next blog...stay in touch!

 

Pathways Yoga System’s mission is to teach students to become aware of an elemental part of the human condition…the Mind/ Body/Breath connection.

The interrelationship of mind/body/breath is for many something of a mystery.   Historically, it is the basis of the yoga experience; but lately, it is often viewed as a new age theory talked about by yoga practitioners. 
More directly; the mind/body/breath connection is actually fundamental for all of us; causing it to become a part of the mainstream structure of wellness.

In Pathways Yoga Systems, PYS teachers use the term “Body Awareness” when teaching regardless of whether they are Wellness, Gentle, Basic or Experienced classes.
Our “Body Awareness” systems are actually Mind/ Body/ Breath techniques composed of both physical and mental exercises which can help you make positive changes in not only your body, but in your life.

Look for a PYS teacher in your area and remember; EVERY day is a new day… EVERY day presents new challenges and opportunities.
The practices PYS teachers use in their weekly classes will give you a new appreciation of how your mind can help you experience your body in a new way…every day! 


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