Observe

To OBSERVE is to see, watch , perceive or notice. As you go through each day, do you take the time and effort to observe what is really going on around you? To notice, not only the big events, but more importantly, the small details. The peeling paint on an old garden chair beckoning you to come sit quietly. The delicate intricacy of a spider's web. The way a friend bites her lip before telling an intimate truth. The sound of rain falling on a Winter's day. The smell of freshly baked bread. Observe what happens when you let the details of the day unfold gracefully before you...finding balance between obligations and responsibilities and the joyful, spontaneous moments that make life interesting.

Tall Chief RV Park, Fall City, Washington

"I observe the details of my world."

Yoga Pose: Triangle Pose Trikonasana

Instead of trying to go as deep as you can in this pose, try softening and backing off a bit to observe the full expansion of your side body and heart center.

Foundation. Start in Tadasana - Mountain Pose. Set your intention.

Stance. Step your feet about 4 feet apart. Turn your left foot out 90 degrees. Turn your back toes slightly to the left. Press the outer right heel firmly to the ground. Keep your legs straight without locking your knees.

Arms. Lift and expand your arms to shoulder height. Palms down.

Torso. Exhale and extend your torso to the left directly over the left leg, bending from the hip joint, not the waist. Anchor this movement by strengthening the right leg. Rotate the torso to the right, keeping the two sides of the torso equally long. Let the left hip come slightly forward and lengthen the tailbone toward the back heel. Rest your left hand on your lower thigh or shin. Stretch your right arm toward the sky.

Gaze. Soften your jaw and eyes. Keep your head in a neutral position or turn it to the right, eyes gazing softly at the right thumb. Smile.

Timing. Stay in this pose for several breaths. Observe the freedom of the breath when the pose is modified in this manner. Inhale to come out of the pose, strongly pressing the back heel to the ground and reaching the top arm to the sky. Release your arms down and bring your feet to parallel.

B R E A T H E

[Repeat on the other side]

Santa Barbara, California