As I shift through things I have collected over the years, I am surprised how much I have.
My intention is to hold onto those I want to take with me and to let go off those that no longer serve me.
Its not easy though, as these possessions are a representation of who I am.
It seems never ending the more I unpack, the more I want to hold onto, it’s as if a fear of letting takes hold of me and so the more attached I become.
As I unpack  images dart across my mind and tell me the stories of my life, ones which I have interpreted, learnt, created all personal to me.
Some of what I possess I have had for years, they are no use to me any longer, yet they are part of me and I have become used to them.
Like an old trinket box with a broken lid which has traveled with me over the years, my ache in my knee has become more embedded into my persona.
I try to practice non- attachment, in identifying what I am attached so I can learn to let go, move on and enjoy being present.
Non-attachment – non-possessiveness Aparagraha) – the 5th Yama, is a practice of being true to myself, it helps me live my life with authenticity, it releases the desire to acquire, to consume and gives me freedom in my body, mind and spirit.
So, as I practice non-attachment with my possessions I am can learn to begin to let- go of my attachments to my emotional baggage, my stories and celebrate in my heart, mind and soul.

Patanjali

When HRH Duchess of Cambridge announced she was pregnant, I sent her a copy of my book The Yoga of Pregnancy.

I received a letter today from Buckingham Palace, OK so it’s not quite “By Appointment …” 🙂 but it was nice to receive.

Letter from Buckingham Palace

Kate was hospitalized early in her pregnancy suffering from Hyperemesis Gravidarum (acute morning sickness and nausea).

Whilst there are certain poses that can relieve ‘normal’ morning sickness and nausea, e.g. Modified Reclining Hero pose, her condition was serious enough to warrant a few night’s stay in hospital.

I wish her and her baby well for the remainder of her pregnancy.

Namaste.

Anjaneyasana – Crescent Moon

For this pose I will need a yoga mat and a small cushion.

This exercise when pregnant is suitable for all stages of my pregnancy

Benefits: Anjaneyasana stretches the hips and upper thighs; strengthens the lower back and pelvic muscles; opens the chest; improves circulation and respiration.

Cautions: I will avoid this pose if I have pelvic girdle discomfort.

Modifications: If I have sensitive knees I will place a cushion under my back knee. To help steady myself or if I have high blood pressure I will practice the pose with my hands on my knees and look forward (b).

• I come into a tabletop position and step my right foot in between my hands. I make room for you by shuffling my right foot over to the right. I look down to check my right knee is stacked directly over my right ankle and aligned with my second and third toes
• I extend back and out through my left leg
• I bring my torso upright so it stacks over my pelvis and glance at my hips to ensure that they are facing forward
• I look down towards my belly and see it rising and falling with my breath
• On an inhalation I reach my arms up over my head, and exhaling I soften my shoulders away from my ears
• I softly gaze towards my hands (a)
• Staying here for five breaths, I mindfully repeat this week’s affirmation:
  My baby’s eyes are open, ready to receive the wonders of the world
• I repeat the pose to my other side

(a) Gaze at the thumbs

(b) Gaze straight ahead

Adapted from my book The Yoga of Pregnancy