If you follow on Instagram (berryhappybodies) Facebook, or here you have noticed I have been posting more pictures of myself in yoga poses.

I have been hesitant to post pictures since Yoga is really it’s 8 limbs, expressions beyond the poses or Asanas.  You can read more about Yoga’s Limbs at Expressions of the Spirit.

As I have been practicing Yoga over the last 12 years my intention is to be aware of all these Limbs. For me Yoga is not only it’s 8 Limbs, but it’s also one Limb of  my overall Well Being.  Since this blog is a representation of ways I stay healthy, and yoga is a huge component, with your encouragement I’ve been posting more pictures.   As an added bonus, it has been a way to deepen my practice since now I view the Asanas close up.

I believe everyone has certain “Limbs” which give them balance and flow in their life.

My other Limbs of Health, helping to keep me in my “flow” are:

Love
I require quality time with my husband, family and friends without phones, computer or other distractions.

                                                                              Movement
For me this includes yoga, strength training, running, walking, surfing, hiking, biking, etc.. On a weekly basis I make sure to include yoga, strength training and a few days of some type of cardiovascular exercise. My husband can immediately tell if I’ve gone too long without one of these areas. For his sanity   as well as mine, he will nicely request I go for a run or head to a yoga class.

Relaxation
Even though I love working with people, and do all day long, I am also an introvert. I require alone time (even from my loving husband) to replenish. Sometimes it’s just 15 minutes of quiet time in the shower, or other times it’s longer with a book. Or, a workout or Yoga will help to calm my mind.

Nutrition
It’s an ongoing evolution. I feel more energized, lighter and think much faster when I eat closer to the source and keep the sugar low. I’m definitely not perfect though………… For some meal and snack ideas you can check out the Recipe page.

Work
I love my vacation time don’t get me wrong. But, I also love to work. I feel like I’m contributing to Society by helping others  live a higher quality of life, and it helps me to fulfill my purpose.  

Sleep
I do not function. At all. Without enough sleep. Enough said.

Passion/Inspiration
Expressions of my creativity through many outlets…. Sometimes experiencing new hobbies, or just focusing on the ones mentioned above.

                                                                                Giving
I feel strongly about helping others to feel better no matter where they are in life. Even if it is only a smile I can give at that moment. Most days I try to do more.  I also like to attend events for a larger cause like the Yoga Aid event hosted by Wanderlust.  Even if we don’t have extra money to give there is still a lot we can do to help each other.

If one of these limbs falls off the wagon because of time or neglect, the rest tumble off as well since there is overlap between them all. When this happens I have a hard time functioning and signs show up that I need to pick up an area. Signs like sickness, irritability, pain, excessive fatigue,  lack of passion or inspiration…. When things are flowing I am energized, creative, happy,  and more open.

Do you know what your “Limbs” are? What is important to you?