Yes, I’m a yoga instructor.

Well, it’s official!

 

I’m a certified yoga instructor!

 

After 8 long months of training, practicing, and soaking in every bit of yoga I could, I’m a real live teacher thanks to the Asheville Yoga Center and Yoga Alliance!

It’s a funny feeling…not the end of a journey, but the start of something new. I’m passionate now more than ever for all things yoga and know that this program was just a catalyst to send me right along this path. I’m so grateful for every experience I have had with this program…the papers written, the tests and quizzes taken, and the books read…but most importantly, the time spent practicing and just spending time with our little “tribe” of yogis.

 

At our closing circle, we all felt how much love, understanding, compassion, and acceptance there was in the room. I was so proud of each and every single person who had completed the program with me, and so inspired by their strength and knew that all of them were feeling the same thing.  We grew together, and I will hold each of them in my heart as I share my love of yoga with all those who cross my path.

 

But what would the end be without a big celebration!? On Saturday night, we all got together to celebrate all that we have accomplished. Lots of food, lots of wine, and lots of smiles.

 

I, of course, brought a salad.

And even better, on Sunday after our “Graduation” we all went to the Thai temple. Every Sunday in Tampa, they make delicious thai food and open their doors to raise money for their temple! It’s so beautiful, and the food is delicious.

 

The food is made right in front of you…can’t you just see her putting the love into this papaya salad?

Oh, and in these coconut custard thingies…there is a WHOLE lot of love in there! They are sweet, hot and creamy and soooooooo delicious. I mean seriously, I could go and just get this and be one happy camper! They actually have scallions in them, which you wouldn’t expect, but they go perfectly together for some strange reason. YUM!

And check out the deep fryer…

Mmmm…

The best part of the whole day was spending time enjoying delicious food and wonderful conversation with the amazing group of yogis and yoginis I have shared so much.

And I’ll leave you with a little quote…something that inspires me to share this passion that I have, and hopefully move others in the way that all of my teachers have moved me:

You are loved on this day for all the wonder that you bring to your world with the gift of being you…The fastest way to experience this is to be the vehicle through which others see it in themselves.

-Neale Donald Walsch

Tagged as: thai temple, Yoga