One of my first yoga teachers told me that dogs spend the entire day meditating. That seemed like a strange comment at the time, and I didn't really understand it. But I wanted to seem like an enlightened yoga student, so I gave him my most contemplative look and nodded my head in agreement, utterly dumbfounded. I forgot about that comment for a long time, until recently, during a discussion on meditation practices at YogaLife. That seemingly indecipherable comment took on an entirely different meaning.

I am the proud pet-parent of three rescue dogs. I consider my stewardship of their lives to be a great privilege. And as I watch my husky mix, Little Luna, stare out the window, completely immersed in her surroundings and entirely in the present moment, I must acknowledge - dogs spend the entire day meditating.

The five branches of Yoga seek to decrease the control of the Ego so that we can connect with something greater than ourselves and be guided by a virtuous intention.

Those drawn to Karma Yoga seek this softening of the ego by focusing on their actions, their duties in life, with a sense of mindfulness and non-attachment. Tantra Yogis apply discipline and care toward their physical and energetic beings, going beyond pleasure toward the higher goal of sustained health and vitality. Jnana Yogis seek wisdom and knowledge that lends a higher perspective to any situation, including states of "not knowing" or accepting mystery. Raja Yogis seek to understand and quiet thoughts, inviting in a greater knowledge of the limited nature of the mind and the possibility for an experience beyond reason, space and time.

While writing my last two novels, I had a very specific morning routine: I got up, did my yoga practice, and then went to work on the most recent manuscript, writing between 1,000 and 2,000 words.

My yoga practice was instrumental to my writing process. It helped get me into the right mindset. It helped wake me up and get my body moving. It helped release muscles that had been tightened by long hours of sitting. It helped clear out my mind of the chatter, the worries, the stressors, making it easier to figure out what happened next in my books.

But those are small day-to-day reasons why my yoga practice has helped me as a writer. What yoga has really given me goes far beyond postures and breathing exercises.

If you Google the benefits of Meditation you will find a lot of information that, in sum, describe a daily meditation practice as a way to stay healthy, avoid multiple diseases, become happier and improve your performance in any task. Sounds pretty good, so why don't more of us do it? 

Because we think it's hard, and no fun--not the best motivator for most people.



A student just recently shared an "aha" moment with me. She tried approaching meditation as a chance to simply spend a few moments with herself. This gentle attitude guided her now, whereas before she was trying too hard for a profound experience, ultimately feeling like a failure. 

I thought about this and wondered more about how to make meditation more appealing.

What if we looked at meditation like it was a puppy? 

First and foremost we can't help but love this adorable creature. Could we look at ourselves and our meditation practice with this kind of easy adoration? Maybe.

“The Comprehensive Yoga Therapy program at YogaLife is most definitely one of the best decisions I have made as a Yoga Teacher. The training is the perfect balance of technical and spiritual. The Yoga Philosophy lessons are presented in ways that could resonate on many different levels with people. The Anatomy lessons are simultaneously in-depth and approachable. Topics are discussed in a warm and inviting atmosphere with a team of open and inviting people. It is impossible to really measure the growth one has as a result of this training. I truly recommend this to any instructor looking to do Yoga Therapy.” ~ A.R.

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“The CYT program has helped me deepen my understanding of Yoga Philosophy. I have gained so much confidence in working one-on-one with students, specifically guiding towards self-inquiry vs. lecturing “at” them. Addressing my own areas of stress and belief systems has rooted me in a seat of compassion and curiosity. I want to understand each individual. I meet and assist them in finding a greater sense of wholeness. I am so grateful to the YogaLife Institute of NH for facilitating a program that instills knowledge, competency and compassion. ” 

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“The education at the YogaLife Institute is truly comprehensive and integrative. The teachers each have their own unique perspectives to share that are rich in value. They provide the space and support to encourage you to have your own experience. The first level of CYT training beautifully and succinctly shares Yoga as a system of stress management as a way back into the Self. The experiential aspects of the program allow you to experience the systems of the body first hand and how Yoga does its magic as a holistic way of living. Each teacher does their best to ensure a safe space to explore the edges of your comfort zone, resulting in confidence as a practicing Yoga Therapist.” 

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“Attending the YLI CYT program has been such a gift. So much thinking, smiling, and shining in every seminar. So grateful for the inspiring and authentic instruction by Julie, Brian, Sally, Carter, Nick and others. It has been a joy to dig deep into the philosophy and practice of Yoga in lovely
surroundings and with the wisdom and companionship of my fellow students. My experience has been one of feeling more balanced and breathing deeper with each seminar. A life-changing experience.” 

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“The CYT program is living up to its name in being truly comprehensive, integrating the 5 branches of yoga and applying them in a holistic manner. The program is very practical and uses experiential learning - case studies, class discussions and extensive self study as well as lots of reading. I feel very lucky to be able to learn from such knowledgeable teachers who creatively bring yogic wisdom to help alleviate suffering in a new way. It has taken my personal and professional practice to a different level. I highly recommend it.”