Personal Dedication: Somewhere over the rainbow… There’s a land that I heard of once, in a lullaby

My yogic journey began shortly after my clock turned thirty. This was one of many exploratory steps that could loosely be couple into what one might call a major “house cleaning” project. On the surface everything was perfect – a successful career, beautiful suburban home, amusing hobbies, and few obstacles. But not far below the surface, cracks began to emerge; something very important was missing. I wasn’t quite sure what it was, but I had a sense that my life thus far had been dull & unexplored. I can’t say that Ashtanga was love at first sight. The first couple lessons felt labored and uncomfortable. But within a few months, and having found the right teachers, it became obvious this was the path I had been seeking. A couple years after immersing myself in every class and workshop I was able to attend, I enrolled in the teacher-training program at YogaYoga under the benevolent guidance of Michael Benton (Mehtab). The TT program provided the historical and cultural context within which the asana practice resided. The new knowledge opened my mind to ideas and principles that would serve as my new spiritual foundation. The rigorous Ashtanga practice provided the focus and discipline I needed to implement these principles in everyday life. As a couple more years went by and my practice continued to deepen, I realized that the time had come to implement significant changes in my life. I dropped out of the comfortable suburban yuppie lifestyle, and set out to start over in rural Ozark Mountains of Northwest Arkansas. Under the guidance of a competent carpenter I built a cozy log cabin, planted fruit trees, and cultivated and ever growing garden. Doggie Mountain is home to my partner and I, our dogs, cat, chickens, and all those who were here prior to our arrival. My calling was to live a slow & quiet life surrounded by nature. A lifelong desire muted by conventions of the mind, and brought forth only through the practice of yoga. I cherish my daily Ashtanga practice: In the summer on the deck shaded by a great old Maple, and in the winter by the wood stove. I continue to be amazed by the unending process of discovery that is the yoga practice. The simple postures aren’t really easy nor are the difficult ones hard. The practice is like nectar from the Gods, bathing me in peace and joy. I also consider it to be my greatest source of security. I wish to share this wonderful practice with others, so that they too may benefit, and continue to spread it yet further. There are many to whom I am indebted for inviting me into their hearts, and sharing their knowledge and passion with me. First and foremost, my yoga teacher, spiritual mother, and dear friend, Sharon Moon. Sharon tirelessly shines her light and devotion on thousands of us seekers worldwide. Her unconditional love inspires even the most doubting hearts. Carolyn Silver, the quiet and astute healer who shared with me the knowledge of the sacred Enneagram, and has been supportive with great love and sound advice when I was lost in the woods. Mark Russell, my dear friend, who continues to guide and inspire me from afar. Dan Jones, my life partner and gentle friend, who loves me unconditionally, as I am, regardless. I bow to the lotus feet of the gurus, which awaken insight into the happiness of pure being. Namaste’ Alicia