Dear Soul Dive,

One more time for the cheap seats… YOGA IS YOUR JOB! I know what you’re thinking… and yes, Yoga is very much my job too, just not how you might think. See, practicing Yoga is the embodiment of taking care of your body and fulfilling your soul. So is hiking, cycling, meditating, walking, connecting with friends, sharing a meal, gardening, and the list goes on. If it nourishes your mind, body, and soul it is, in fact, your job. If you need further proof, the bible says it best: “Beloved, I hope that you are prospering in every aspect and in good health, just as your soul is prospering.” 3 John 1:2

When I take time away from “work” (which yes, also happens to be Yoga), I dig into the real work. I wake up early and do my ‘soul dive’ introspective process which includes journaling, meditating, praying and reading, practicing yoga, making a nice meal, walking the beach, and making time for meaningful human connection. Sometimes doing all these life-giving things takes me until 2 or 3 in the afternoon. Sure, there’s likely some time spent on emails, but really, where does the time go?

It made me think… what is my actual job? Is this process a frivolous use of time or using my time most wisely to pre-serve myself? I decided it was the latter, and literally, me practicing what I preach. When I open up the computer to work I’m highly productive, focused, eager to dive in, and excited to tackle the to-do list. When I take care of myself, the obligatory task list is far more palatable than diving into emails upon first waking up (I don’t ever recommend this).

We so often start with the stuff we have to do to get it out of the way. It drags on, takes longer, or leads to major distractions. Ultimately, we’re taken away from what actually nourishes us as humans like quiet space, nature, and connection. I have had to rewire my brain from the hustle of my PR life in Chicago to the fact that it is my job to take care of myself. For two reasons really… The first being, if I don't, who will? Second, if I don’t walk my talk, who the heck is going to show up and practice with me?

I understand the need to work and to a certain degree, we all have jobs, thriving careers even. Why don’t we consider the work we do on ourselves as part of our job? Why are yoga, meditation, hiking, connecting, or any of the other life-giving things we want to do funneled under leisure or hobby activities? We’ve got it all backward. It is essential we take care of ourselves so we have the ability - physically and energetically - to take care of all the rest.

I’m approaching another trip around the sun. Next Friday, June 16th, I turn 38. Birthdays are meant to be celebrated. As we all know, nothing is guaranteed and life is absolutely meant to be enjoyed! They also make me think about what it means to really take care of myself. So I’m committing to lead by example and share more about my work - on and off the mat. Perhaps it will inspire you to do the same.

Just remember... Your health and well-being is your job. Far be it for me to tell you what to do, but in my humble opinion, it is your most important job. We’ve got a lot going on this month. Come celebrate my birthday on Saturday, June 17th for Live DJ Soulful Vinyasa at 10 am, sign up for the Back to Basics workshop, and absolutely do not miss the Summer Solstice on the 21st; 6 pm Vinyasa and 7:30 pm sound bath.