Regular practice: how small improvements make you happy

A student of mine who has been practicing for over 20 years, including 15 years with Nagy Yoga, naturally touched her knees with her nose the other day in paschimottanasana - sitting forward bend - and burst with joy: "I did it! Last time was years ago, and I was hoping to do it again. Here I am." She looked jubilant. I was happy for her, congratulated her, and went on with my teaching. Yoga is not about performance, but finding satisfaction in the practice is so encouraging.

This student practices every day. I don't know for how long. But she finds out about small improvements, and it always makes her happy. Practicing by yourself is difficult. It is self-discipline. For some reason, when you overcome the first few weeks of struggle, it becomes part of your daily routine. When you feel tired, you'll dig out more energy; when you feel well, your experience deepens to mindful practice, focusing on any tiny change in your body, mind, and breath.