To Do List

I can sense that I'm playing on the edge of burn out, and it's only as I write this message that I remember how dangerous this game can be.  When we have too many things going on, it's easy to become ruled by our "tasks."  The overwhelming need to complete these tasks usually becomes stressful, which translates into the body as tension. I know from personal experience and from the multitude of reports that I get from my students daily, that once we are accustomed to "busyness," it's nearly impossible to pull ourselves away from it.  We essentially become addicted to the things that make us feel useful and progressive in a culture that constantly rewards productivity.  We become addicted to our tension.  The scary question I try pose to myself every day is, "Who am I without my to-do list?"  If I strip myself of all responsibilities and abandon all of my labels- daughter, fiance, teacher, friend- what is left?  What if I surrender all of my stress, tension, fear, guilt and shame so I can truly sit in the seat of my heart?  The authentic essence of who we are is always within us- it is the light we talk about in the yoga practice and the light that we strive to recognize in each other, even in our darkest moments.  When we are living in our own truth and light, it's much easier to see other people's light.  It may come in glimpses, minutes, hours... whoa, sometimes it even lasts the whole morning!  And when we are in these moments of clarity, there is love and compassion towards our own souls and all beings.  We officially let go of judgment, ego, and all of the labels that hold us back from what we all truly are- children of this incredible World.  I sit in awe of the exquisite beauty that we share.  I am honored to witness our yoga community come together and support each other in the ultimate quest to set aside our tasks and come back home to source.  If you're ever feeling lost in the busyness, remember you've got friends in yoga!