Yoga Reaches Out Event

Last Sunday, I took part in my first Yoga Reaches Out event at the Gillette Stadium Field House in Foxboro, MA. To say that the day was an amazing exercise in my, literal, balance is an understatement. To say that it was a day filled with so many good vibes, the occasional tear and lots of yoga, would be an accurate assessment. What I am trying to say is that it was one of the most fun days that I have had in a really long time, which turned out to be the icing on the cake since the event itself raised a ton of money for Boston Children's Hospital and Ben Speaks Louder than Words.

I hadn't really socialized with anyone from my yoga studio, Revolution Community Yoga, so this was an amazing opportunity to get to know some people that are like minded and local to me. We had a great time trying to balance in some interesting poses together, we chatted about our kids... it was just a nice day in between the great yoga instructors running whirlwind sessions. Some things that were brought to the forefront of my mind that day weren't just the amazing charities that we were there supporting, Boston Children's Hospital and Ben Speaks Louder than Words, but some personal things that I guess I just needed time to reflect on.

It was nice to have a full day away from both my husband and my baby, doing something that I love to do, that makes me relax, and that is something that is "just me". It's been a struggle to keep reaching for the "brass ring" that is the Amanda that I was before I had the baby almost this time last year. I had time to "think" and "be" and eat a normal speed because no one needed me to do something the next moment.  Things that I am moving towards after this time at YRO?

• I am setting up a small meditation area for when I need a moment, alone, to just "be". I think even 5 minutes to myself, in quiet, will go a long way.
• I am going to continue to do good things for people. It makes me feel good. Whether it's fundraising, spreading awareness or just buying a coffee for the woman behind me in line. Feeling good, also, goes a long way.
• I am not going to let Hopelessness hold the hand of Hope. When I am feeling down, I am going to try to pick myself right back up. *fist pump*
• I am surely going to raise more money next year for YRO 2016!

Thank you to those who donated to my Yoga-thon; it means so much to me that you helped me achieve (and surpass) my fundraising goal!