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BREATHING IN MYSELF by Rachelle Smith Stokes


For about a month I was on the go…

 Starting yoga teacher training the same weekend my husband and I moved. Having a new job and working a 40 hour week then going to training all weekend and back again. Doing that for a few weeks wore me out. I was constantly on the go.

During a Mysore class I got the notion I needed to stand in tadasana (mountain pose) to feel grounded and calm.

I cried for most of the practice in child’s pose after that. I was proud I didn’t flee the room and go home though I tried my best to hide my tears. I stayed with it. I was still. Not moving constantly.

I also had to be with myself and only myself and my breath. I hadn’t felt that in so long and upon finally receiving it, I was overwhelmed. Then I was thankful.

Breathing in Myself

Do mountains get tired?
Is that why they crumble or erupt
after standing strong for so long?
Or so it thought.
The top dumps off or its inside explodes.

I couldn't bear Tadasana today.
Being still was too much
as I finally felt grounded beneath my feet.
Quiet and still I was alone.
Breathing in myself like a mountain.

I cried
Instead of sweat.
I folded swiftly to more earth
Instead of crumpling like somber rocks.
I became quiet and studied inward
Instead of bursting like angry lava.

My mountain didn't collapse.
I surrendered.
A lovely heap of tears in child's pose, bowing to what is.
I have come back home.
Earth, infant, weeping.
Wondering where it all came from.
Humbled
To begin once more.
~
Artwork by Grenn Pollard



Rachelle Smith Stokes (aka Writer Yogi) is just that: A writer of poetry, inspiration and lessons learned on her yogic journey. She lives with her husband in Dayton, Ohio but hopes to one day share her passion for writing and yoga with other states and time zones. Her goal is to inspire and be inspired through her passions and connecting with others. You can connect with her on Facebook here , twitter or her 'Ujjayi Life' website here. And to hear her reciting her poems, visit Rachelle's Youtube channel. 






~If you are interested in seeing your poetry appear in this blog, or submitting a poem by a woman that has inspired you, please click here for submission guidelines. I greatly look forward to hearing from you!~ 

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