Present for the peak

Deep reds, vibrant oranges, glowing yellows…Have you had your eyes peeled for the peak of Autumn colors in the Blue Ridge?

I was certain the peak was a few weeks back and then while hiking last weekend noticed more yellows and reds popping, along with the lingering green leaves that will offer more color in the weeks to come. And then it hit me, this observing, anticipating, finding a moment of contentment or awe and knowing it will continue to unfold, isn’t so different from yoga asana practice, building a homestead, or many of our life experiences.

In some asana classes we work towards a peak pose- perhaps it’s dancer (natarajasana,) monkey or (hanumanasana), or triangle (trikonasana). We prepare, by connecting with the breath, warming the body, finding shapes that activate & lengthen the parts of the body that will need to be strong and long for that peak pose. After reaching our fullest expression of this shape we begin to balance with shapes that lengthen opposing parts of the body and begin to quiet and cool in preparation for shavasana or meditation.

In life we can work towards a goal or destination… we’ve been building a homestead for over three years, a dream that first took seed ten years ago. And just last month we were able to move into part of it- we had made it- we reached the peak pose so to speak. And as I sat on the deck taking in the colors of Autumn I realized this is the peak, the fullest expression, in this moment. Take it in- how does it feel in the body, how is the breath flowing, am I present or is my mind wandering to the next iteration, or asking what I could have done differently or what do I need to do next?

Sure there are a lot of things that need to be done- some bigger, some smaller- to complete our home, but now why not take the time to be present and content just where I am, just as I practice on my mat. Taking a moment to find stillness and balance the effort that got me here, without judgement, without dwelling on what came before or wondering what lies ahead.

So that afternoon I sat and enjoyed the warmth of the Autumn sun that feels that much stronger with the chill of the air around, took in the view and colors of the mountains, snuggled with the dogs, repotted some herbs, put on a record, danced like nobody was watching, and gave thanks to all of the people and experiences that allowed me to get here, in a simple and functional space on this beautiful land.

This is the practice, “Yoga is a journey, not a destination.” Our peaks (and our valleys) are ephemeral, so all we can do is observe, listen, be present, give thanks, and begin again.