Namaste New York

For anyone who knows me, getting up at 7:00 am on a Saturday is NOT my idea of a good time. But on June 21st I participated in the Mind Over Madness Yoga Summer Solstice in Times Square.  As far as amazing New York experiences go, this one is at the top of the list. Several yoga classes were held from 8am to Sunset at the cross section of 7th Ave and Broadway at 43rd Street.  Many people know that Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year, but it is not typically celebrated in Western society. Some believe that on this day when the sun is at its full force of energy we are at the height of our creative powers, femininity and fertility. This of course was not my first thought about that day...I was more worried about the cab driver popping the curb and busting in on my sun salutations!

When we got there the line was long and I was positive there was no way we were all fitting in that tiny triangle separating 7th from Broadway!  Thankfully we made it in, got our goodie bag (including a mat, t-shirt, food/drinks, etc), found our spot and began our practice.  I don't know about the other 100 or so people there, but I was completely unaware of the taxis flying by.  It was a nice practice; a good pace and energizing start in the morning of the longest day of the year.  It was amazing to feel present in the experience, but I couldn't help to stop and come back to reality of where I was. I would get into Warrior II and realize that people were standing on the opposite sidewalk taking my picture. Or realizing when I was in shoulder stand that I was lying in the middle of Times Square looking up at the sky and buildings surrounding. At that very moment the song "The Sounds of Silence" by Simon and Garfunkel (maybe best know for Will Ferrell's drowning song in Old School) came on and I couldn't help but smile. I knew that I would always remember that moment.

My friend Paige and I both had an amazing experience that I hope to repeat again next year!  Here are some images from that day - click on a photo below to see more in my album. I hope you enjoy and are inspired to join me for the next Summer Solstice!  Namaste New York!