Yoga and Feelin' better

So, recently I've been experimenting with yoga. I felt inspired by a former pastor's wife, who did a lot of yoga in her house with yoga films. This initially sounds silly, but it led me to wonder, "What's this about?" Upon moving back to Wisconsin, I went to the local Barnes and Noble Booksellers, and picked up a yoga DVD. I managed to do some of the basic stretches and moves. (These are called "poses.") Upon finishing these hour long exercises, I realized I felt a sort of, "high," comparable to that I used to feel when I ran cross country in high school. So... being an English and Sociology major, my curiosity took off. I decided to do my homework, and see what others had to say about this. I wanted to know if others had similar feelings.According to an article on about.com, written by Ann Pizer, yoga can help to reduce stress. She notes that, like other forms of physical activity, yoga requires a concentration that helps, "melt" your troubles away. She notes that this concentration also helps to bring a calmness to your body as you focus on your body. As you continue to do yoga, you can also increase strength and flexibility, which can also help reduce pain. (Pizer). Some of the stretching that comes with yoga can help release an enzme that comes with muscle use, that can cause fatigue as well as other side effects. Studies have shown that, even with several weeks of practicing yoga,  one can feel benefits. According to most studies, participants in yoga noticed increased shoulder and trunk flexibility (webmd.com). Ok, ok. Enough of this paper writing professional mode, and into the more fun and exciting stuff. (For more info. on yoga, check out the links posted below.)

Bailey and I also just went for a walk, and it reminded me again of Montana. Not just the aspect of being outside with my pooch... because that's nothing like being in Big Sky Country. The skies looked like home, and the wind blew wonderfully, as a fire flickered in a grill, resembling something of a campfire on the prairie. The air smelled wonderfully, of wood; it seemed to carry a certain moisture that brought storms with it. Anyway, it reminded me of the prairie I call home.

I have also determined that walks help me feel better. The abllity to take time to think of, and be grateful for my surroundings, even if I don't particularly  care for my current place in life. I have a roof over my head. Family who cares and an amazing beagle who, while she occasionally drops the ball, will never let me down. She is, after all, a dog.

Speaking of dogs, I assume you've all read about the amazing corgi? If not, here's a link to that story:  http://www.nbcmontana.com/news/30142325/detail.html

Anyway, the point I'm trying to make is something along the lines of, do something you love, often. Find time to touch base with yourself and set goals. Then, make 'em happen. Be happy. Bring peace. Love. Laugh often. And be around people who like you for you.
"... She likes me for me... Not because I hang with Leonardo, or that guy who plays in Fargo..."

Pizer, Ann. "Health Benifits of Yoga." <http://yoga.about.com/od/beginningyoga/a/benefits.htm> 26 Sept. 2011. 6 Jan. 2012
"Yoga Health Benifits: Flexibility, Strength..." <http://www.webmd.com/balance/the-health-benefits-of-yoga>