Yoga is a unification. It is a practice and a way of life. It is not only what we do, it is who we are, how we live our lives, how we act, how we treat others, how we tread on this Earth. It is an opportunity to look inwards, to reconnect with ourselves. 

Why do we do yoga?

To have a healthier body, yes, but more importantly a healthier mind.  It shouldn't just be your physical practice when it can be your everyday life.  It is true we need to be flexible, mobile and strong to achieve longevity in life but without a healthy mind none of that matters.  I'm not ashamed to admit it took me years to realise this but once I did....everything changed.

What is yoga when we practice on our mats?

For me it is an opportunity to self scan, it's a dance, a meditation, a flow, a deepening of the senses, connecting breath with movement or stillness, connecting mind with body.  It's an opening to something far greater, it is humbling and beautiful.

True yoga is not about the shape of your body, but the shape of your life. Yoga is not performed, yoga is to be lived. Yoga doesn't care about what you have been, it cares about the person you are becoming. It is designed for a vast and profound purpose and for it to be called yoga, it's essence must be embodied.   Aadil Palkhivala

So when you practice yoga, in everyday life as well as on the mat, take your time to really listen to your body, release the stresses, anxiety, anything that distracts you negatively, try and let it go, take a moment and breathe. Focus on what makes you happy, what you are grateful for.  This will be difficult at first and will take practice and will often test you, the key is to always be present. Be grateful you are taking the steps to a better life that you deserve.