At a recent workshop with Yin Yoga Master Sarah Power, she has been emphasizing the importance of being mindful in yoga practice. I agree totally with that approach.
Do you know the difference? We as yogis would like to focus a lot on being aware of what's going on in our mind and our bodies. However, I would also think that, being aware is only the first step of working towards a mindfulness approach in our practice. In my experience, when you practice, you tune in with yourself and turn the focus inward and constantly checking in to see what and how your body is doing; what your mind is thinking. Once you pay more attention inward, you would begin to move mindfully. You would begin to be aware to make every move meaningful. You would begin to be aware of how you would feel and what your body would do if you move your body a certain way and at a certain speed. Being mindful takes constant awareness of the connection between our mind and bodies. Practice mindfulness will increase the depth of your physical as well as your mental practice. However, don't expect to come into these terms right away if you are new to mindfulness practice. Just being aware of what's going on would be good to begin. Remember, one step at a time. Sometimes, just one baby step is plenty. Sometimes, a big leap might just happen if you open yourself to all possibilities. If you become stuck and not sure what yourself is doing, try turning the focus internally and just reflect on what you have already achieved in the process so far. Hopefully, you will find something else you would still need to work on and go from there again. That is part of being mindful of your practice. Hope it helps you to go to your next step. Namaste

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