How To Be a Domestic Yogi

For years I worked on developing my one-pointed awareness and mindfulness through asana, mediation and Buddhist tantric practices in order to find some sort of deeper realization into the nature of reality. Single, without kids, a stable job, I had the luxury of time and money to devote to my "personal development."

Now, as The Domestic Yogi, with two young children and many demands on my time, I do not have the luxury of time to spend on diving down deep into such practices. I am still obsessed with awakening the divine within, but now I am more concerned with living as consciously and compassionately as possible. 

The tricky part of being a Domestic Yogi is bringing these "deeper truths" that I've unearthed in my previous practices, into real life and living them fully each moment to moment. 

As the full-time care-giver of small children, sometimes I don't even have the luxury of being able to think a complete thought in my own head during the day. Children have a natural way of forcing you, ready or not, into each moment. The hard part, is staying mindful.

A friend recently asked me what yoga means to me. Before I had children, I would have answered the question much differently. Running off and meditating in a cave and isolating yourself is important so that realizations can be attained, but now I see, it is equally important to share that wisdom with others, and to be a "living example" of the Truth. 

Yoga to me means constant connection to ones inner truth or inner divinity, which of course is the same as universal truth, while still remaining grounded and functioning in this world, especially to benefit others. As a Domestic Yogi, staying fully connected yet available and present is key. Yoga isn't just an asana practice, it is an 8-fold path and way of living. 

But how does one stay fully connected and stay present each moment each day?

Ahh, my friends, that IS the path and the practice of the Domestic Yogi!

In my posts to follow, I will explore a few ways to help other inspiring domestic yogis stay centered, connected and present. Better yet, how to do it while being present and playful with your loved-ones! I will share with you my experiences and thoughts on right mindfulness & concentration, compassion & creativity, and how they help you to drop into the moment and BE.