How to Build a Sustainable Yoga Practice That Feels Good for You 

You've probably heard a lot of advice about yoga. The do's and don'ts - so many conflicting information it can be overwhelming and confusing. "Practice daily", they say.  But how do you fit that in when your days are already packed, and time feels scarce. 

The truth is, sustainable yoga is not about perfection or having a "perfectly balanced" schedule where you can squeeze in hours on your mat practicing the perfect asana. It's about finding a practice that fits your life, nourishes your mind and body, and feels doable even on your busiest days.

My son once told me that walking around the block after every meal is more attainable on getting 10,000 steps than forcing ourselves to walk 4 miles in one setting.  The same way with yoga, a small consistent action is more sustainable than grand infrequent effort. Here's how I've learned and how you might make your practice feel good, by  acceptance and embracing small moments on your mat at a time.

Listen to Your Body (Seriously, it knows Best)

Some days my body wants to flow and stretch and other days, it just wants to rest and breathe. That's totally ok! Sustainable practice means showing up for yourself as you are - meaning no pressure and no judgement.  Its about honoring what your body needs in that moment, so you can keep coming back with joy and without discomfort.

Breathe, Meditate, and Slow Down

Adding meditation and breathwork has helped me to slow down, relax, and focus, even on stressful days where I feel the world seems closing in. These practices remind me that yoga isn't just about asanas (poses), but also about nurturing the mind and spirit as well.

Sharing the Love and Growing Together

Yoga feels even better when we share ourselves, our talents and energies, with others.  Inviting a friend to class, supporting the local community,  implementing our ideas into real actions, really make the difference in the world. When we come together as a group or community, our little actions spark bigger change.

Final Thoughts

Sustainable yoga is about balance and mindfulness.  How we move, how we care for ourselves, and how we care for our community and the environment we live in affects  our wellbeing.  Yoga is not about perfection and having to be on our mat for hours, but about showing up with kindness and without judgement.  I hope you'll find ways to make your practice sustainable, joyful, and truly nourishing for you and the world around you.