Shift

Notice what happens when you shift your attention to the here and now, rather than dwelling on what could have been or what happened in the past. As you become present in this moment, you will notice details, feel the sun on your skin, smell the honeysuckle on the breeze, taste the sweetness of fresh strawberries. We cannot change the past, but we can shift our primary focus from it. And as much as dreaming, organizing and planning ahead are crucial elements to a successful life, allowing yourself moments of simply being without an agenda or a plan, makes life full and vibrant. Take time to notice the little things. Live fully in each moment.

Tulip, Skagit Valley, Washington

"I shift from the past to the present."

Yoga Pose: Warrior I Virabhadrasana I

Shift your sensation in a pose by trying an arm variation.

Foundation. Start in Tadasana (Mountain Pose). Set your intention.

Stance. Step your right foot back to come into a lunge by bending your left knee, keeping your feet in line with your outer hips. Extend your right leg out behind you.

Torso & Arms. Inhale and lift your torso upright. Sweep your arms out to the sides then bring them together, crossing your right arm under your left, then entwining them as much as possible. Raise your elbows to parallel the ground or as high up as you can. Release your shoulders away from your ears. Draw your tailbone down toward the ground and allow your pubic bone to reach toward your navel.

Gaze. Tilt your head back to gaze upward. Reach your fingertips to the sky. Hold and breathe. To come out of the pose, unwrap your arms, swing them out to the side and back down along your side body. Step back to Tadasana.

B R E A T H E

[Repeat on other side]

Long Lips Farm, Paola, Kansas