Twenty12

I have a gut feeling that some major surprises and changes are headed our way this upcoming year. This both excites and terrifies me at the same time. My single resolution for 2012 is to just let life be easy. I need to unclench my fists and stop worrying, picking, and obsessing. Instead of constantly focusing on making things happen, I want to learn to let things happen. To continue living a life filled with peace, joy, passion, and faith, no matter what.

Here's to replacing fear of the unknown with curiosity.

Let us celebrate all that is to come!

Happy New Year!

{Lo Bjurulf via Agent Bauer}

April 26th

Today marks our two-year wedding anniversary! I don't know a lot about marriage yet, but so far, we have grown remarkably through great lessons in love, respect, communication, commitment, and grace.

Chris, thank you for standing by me as my best friend, leader, cheerleader, personal stand-up comedian, and sweetheart. I am so thankful to have a husband who is honest, devoted, unwaveringly supportive, and generous beyond words. I love you more than ever.

Lyrics from our first dance {Image credit - Kishani Perera}

Poser

Punta Canna Sirsasana {Image credit: Amy J.}

Yoga has become a huge part of my life this past year. My practice has stretched me physically, mentally, and emotionally in ways I didn't know were possible, and I've reaped rewards far beyond killer triceps and tighter hamstrings.

As a novice, there was a constant temptation to compare myself to other more seasoned yogis in the studio. I'd try desperately to twist and contort my body into the advanced poses they executed with ease. Thoughts of self-doubt would race through my head, and I'd wonder if anyone was watching and ridiculing my form. Oftentimes, it was insecurity, rather than inability, that caused me to topple. It was unnerving, to say the least.

I quickly realized that my negativity was dangerous and could lead to injuries (aka faceplants), or even worse, discouragement. I started letting go of my hang-ups and began trusting my body and intuition. Establishing an honest relationship with myself was crucial, and it allowed me to eventually develop flexibility, balance, strength, and most importantly, confidence.

This was a profound lesson for me. I constantly struggle with high personal expectations and fears of failure, which leads me to be overly self-critical and pessimistic. As I continue to work on myself, I hope to find power to confront my limits, to be resilient when I fall, and have the courage to enjoy my transformation.