Lighthearted
Life can get serious pretty fast. Too much to do. Health concerns. Troubles that keep you awake at night. But life also can be uplifting, fun and carefree. Just as clouds can be dark, ominous and threatening, they can also be light, magnificent and playful. Allow yourself to embrace the quality of being lighthearted at times. When walking out of the store the other day, I overheard two guys chatting about a recent interaction with a store clerk that did not go well. I joined in their conversation with a comment about how many people have lost their sense of humor and misplaced basic social graces. They both actually THANKED me for making them laugh! In a world that has gotten too serious, take the opportunity to offer a friendly smile or a lighthearted comment to a stranger. The reward of a laugh or a thank-you is worth the effort...and the risk.
Amazing Cloud Formation, Cottonwood, Arizona
"I treasure lighthearted moments."
Yoga Pose: Half Moon Pose Ardha Chandrasana
Enjoy lighthearted play wherever life takes you...let your heart shine bright in Half Moon Pose.
Foundation. Start in Mountain Pose. Step your feet wide apart and move into Warrior II on the right side.
Move. Inhale. Push off of your left foot and start to lift your left leg. Reach your right arm forward to the ground, extending your arm about a foot or more forward of the little toe of the right foot. Straighten your right knee, without locking it. Continue lifting the left leg till it is parallel to the ground or a bit higher. Extend through the left heel to keep the left leg fully engaged.
Torso. Rotate your upper torso to the left. Let your heart lead the way.
Hips & Stability. Keep the eyes of the hip bones facing forward. Lengthen the spine, energizing the pose. Balance.
Arms. Reach your left hand to the sky. Without putting too much weight on your right hand, use a rock or a block under your right hand for stabilization.
Gaze. Soften your jaw and eyes or close your eyes to challenge your balance. Keep your neck in a neutral position. Gaze slightly downward or forward or upward. Stay for several breaths and enjoy the playfulness of the pose. To come out of the pose, exhale, return the left leg to the ground, come through Warrior II and return to Mountain Pose.
B R E A T H E
[Repeat on the other side]
Big Bend National Park, Lajitas, Texas