It is an exciting time to be alive. At least we can say that things have not been mundane lately! As everyone is taking steps to return to a sense of "normalcy," I can't help but think about what normal truly means. Now is the perfect time to re-evaluate what we see as normal and essential in our lives. What gifts from this time will you keep? What habits are worth dropping to make more room for the vital things in life?

In March, when we all got jolted into a new way of living, we were given the gift of a new perspective. Mandatory family-time came, we saw parents and young children taking walks and going for bike rides, and dogs all over the world got more attention than ever! However, we can't turn away from the tragedy and loss that has also taken place. Some gifts rise to the surface more quickly than others. As we choose our new normal, let's remember to think beyond ourselves. Let's not forget that our personal choices profoundly affect the collective.

“Believe me when I say that I get it.”

Another thing that changed drastically for many was their fitness and personal care practices. The gym is closed?! The yoga studio is closed?! This change is scary because our habits are strongly intertwined with our sense of safety and self-efficacy. Believe me when I say that I get it. What if these habits that we unknowingly cling to are the very things that block our ability for expansion? One of the vital elements of yogic philosophy and lifestyle is self-observation. What gifts could be revealed if we compassionately observe our most impactful blocks, desires, and longings? These are the questions that I have been contemplating lately to slow my rush to return to "normalcy."

As yoga studios begin to open up this week, yogis from all over will be getting their longing for community filled-up. Togetherness and connectivity is medicine for all of us. Also during this time, many yogis have realized the gift of a home practice.

What I hear from many is that at first, practicing at home was difficult. Doesn't this make so much sense? It is something new. Forming a new habit always holds its difficulties. These same practitioners have come back and shared with me that creating a home practice has been one of the most empowering things they have ever done. Many individuals tell us that they aren't ready to return to group classes. We get this. Some say that they find their home practice to be such a gift that they are choosing to keep it.

Practicing at home is a gift for many. After talking to several home-practice yogis, here are five common benefits we have heard:

1. Practicing at home instills a massive sense of accomplishment and confidence. It takes more self-discipline; however, realizing that you CAN do it, is empowering.

2. Time savings. Who doesn't want more time to do the things that matter?

3. Money savings. No explanation needed.

4. Decreased feelings of self-consciousness, more allowance to slow down, feel, and experiment. We have students claim that they have learned more during these past two months of home-practice than the past three years.

5. Regularity. It is easier to have a daily practice when your studio is steps away! Several students tell us that they now have a more regular practice than ever before.

6. Simplicity. We all need more of this.

Are you still looking for some motivation to practice at home? Here are some tips from our clients:

1. Set-up a practice space that you love. Get a good mat, block, and strap.

2. Dedicate a non-negotiable time (and be willing to go with the flow as needed).

3. Take time to embody and embrace those end-of practice moments. REMEMBER how your practice makes you feel. Draw upon this memory when you need a little extra encouragement to get to your mat.

4. Leave yourself little notes around the house about self-compassion, movement, breath, and wellness. You deserve it.

5. Continue learning. To avoid boredom in your practice, think of it as an education. Learn about your body, continue a never-ending journey of self-investigation. Consider keeping a journal to write in for a few minutes after every practice. Try it.

6. Have a chat with your 20-year OLDER-self. Ask them why it matters. How will your practice and habits today affect your 20-year-older self? What would they say?

Times are changing, and we are all finding our way back to normalcy. The beautiful thing is that we get to choose. We are all unique beings with unique needs and desires. During this strange time, gifts have been laid before us. Do you see them? Do you feel them? What will you keep?

You don't need a teacher to practice yoga at home. However, now, more than ever, you have so many choices with home yoga-instruction, if you are seeking this. Talented teachers from across the globe have been pouring their hearts out into their online offerings. Many studios that are beginning to re-open are also choosing to continue with their online classes. These teachers and studios need your support right now. So, let them help you while you help them. If they have a service that can benefit you and the greater good, take their classes.

As many of you know, my husband and I were forced to close the three studio locations we have run for over fifteen years due to the pandemic. This situation has been heartbreaking for us; however, we have chosen to face the challenge at hand and continue to do what we love. We are dedicating 100% of our days to quality online functional yoga and mindfulness education because we know there is a need for this now more than ever. So, what gifts will you be keeping? What habits are worth letting go? I'd love to hear from you. If you, too, discovered the gift of home practice, I want to hear about it. Do you have any tips that you'd like to share with others?

Stacy Dockins

Author of Embodied Posture: Your Unique Body & Yoga.

Co-Director YP School of Yoga