There was a sociologist who researched traits of the happiest people in the world.  It turns out that this very thing we pursue, fight for, name hours after - HAPPINESS - doesn't come by much of those.

 

"Happiness is when what you think, what you say and what you do are in harmony"

~ Gandhi

 

Simple.  It is the true heart of YOGA = Unity of intention, expression and action.  But simple doesn't always mean easy.  How do we achieve that in everyday life?  According to the sociologist, common traits of all happy people as it turns out are:

 

1) Lack in fear of failure (as in managed expectations of what 'failure' means)

2) Freedom of creative expression (gonna keep doing the triple threat: sing dance mop!)

3) Sense of community (kumbayah!)

  

So this last month in class, we have been experimenting with those ideas. Well we're are a pretty happy class with lots of laughter in Happy Baby Poses.

 

"If we pursue happiness, we'll never find it." ~ C.P. Snow, English Author

 

"Seek not happiness too greedily

and be not fearful of happiness."

~ Lao-Tzu

 

So the ironic thing is HAPPINESS is a lot less about trying to chase it than just BEING it through the new Vitamin Cs: Courage, Creativity, Community.  That theory syncs with its root word: "Happy" comes from "Hap" as in "Chance".  The chance to just BE.  My Mantra:

Happiness happens by happenstance

 

 

RESPOND to this: Zhi@ZhiYoga.com

 

 

2) YOGI OF THE MONTH: MIKE SENDOWSKI

 

Why: Mike and I have worked in the same financial firm for quite a few years.  He is also a faithful Yoga practitioner.  We'd often clear out a conference room to practice after work.  Always calm and centered, he is one of the top earners in the insurance industry for om.. om.. obvious reasons.  Successful people are plenty - those sincerely TRUE are few.

 

 

MIKE SENDOWSKI

Occupation: Insurance Advisor

 

Why Practice Yoga: My son introduced me to Yoga.  I like that it is multi-disciplinary, addressing strength, flexibility and focus.  It is also very challenging and very relaxing at the same time.  

 

Favourite Pose: Well it depends if I can do it!  I love the tree and half-moon pose.  

 

My Message: Be civil.  Treat others with respect, treat them right.

 

Thoughts on Zhi's Classes: Zhi has a holistic approach within Yoga teaching itself - equally physical and spiritual.