You have the ability right now to create happiness for yourself by cultivating it within yourself. We are the creators of our own reality through how we perceive the world. Looking on the bright side of things now can actually change how you feel during future experiences, opening a path to help you practice gratitude more often on a daily basis. Shifting our perception in this manner can feel unachievable and just too difficult, like trying to swim upstream; however, peace of mind and a grateful heart are attainable with a regular yoga practice.

Yoga helps to connect our physical body, breath, mind, and emotions. Imagine these elements as rocks; they can create a firm foundation, but are rough and jagged. Drop these rocks, the different elements of yourself, into the river of yoga, and over time these rocks become smooth and polished.

One of the simplest ways to move toward this transformation is through breathing exercises, or pranayama. By simply taking a moment to notice our breath, we naturally begin to deepen our inhalations and exhalations. Fresh oxygen is sent to the brain, tension in muscles begins to release, and fluctuations in the mind are calmed. Then, by mindfully breathing deeply, we send the signal to our brain that it is okay to relax and that we are safe. The fight or flight response is calmed and symptoms of anxiety and depression are combatted. Breathing mindfully is a form of meditation that connects us to the present moment, the only moment that we actually have. It can help us to feel gratitude for our health and the ability to breathe deeply.

It is here that the transformative power of yoga begins and practicing gratitude for even the little things feels easier.

The transformation continues through the physical practice of yoga, or the asanas. Strength-building poses help us to build strength both physically and mentally, allowing us to carry that strength off the mat and into daily life. Ever been in an uncomfortable social situation where you find yourself internally repeating to yourself, Give me strength? That strength can be cultivated on the mat and carried into those situations. Asanas that nurture flexibility help build flexibility in both the body and the mind. Many yoga classes center around themes of having an open heart or an open mind, and are often filled with backbends and supported heart openers. The connection to a feeling of openness built on the mat in these classes transfers to life off the mat, keeping our hearts and minds open throughout day to day experiences. Learning to be kind to ourselves on the mat makes it easier to be kind to others. Balancing poses help to not only strengthen our legs and ankles, but they also help to improve and strengthen daily concentration.

The physical transformations that take place on the mat create a foundation for the mental and emotional growth that follows. Nurturing this growth once off the mat allows the transformation to continue into other areas of your life. When we continually practice yoga, on and off the mat, transitioning our body and mind to a state of peace and relaxation becomes easier over time. Having a gratitude practice becomes a natural part of daily life. The transformative power of yoga is vast and can be accessed right now beginning with a single breath.