My Mat

My mat is where I come to lay it all down.

When I step onto my mat I say a prayer of gratitude that all I have to do is just show up. Just show up and if I do nothing else, lie there.

On my mat, it doesn't matter what I look like, what I say, how I move, what I wear, if I make a mistake or who I make happy. As long as I show up.

On my mat I am my most authentic. My defenses disappear. My walls come down. My soul sinks back down into my physical body and I become ONE with everything around me. I am free.

On my mat I can breathe again. I exhale all the bullshit that has found a home in my chest. I inhale space in my heart. I exhale frustration rooted in impatience. I inhale the present moment and simple presence. I exhale fear and self-doubt. I inhale love and joy for all that I am. I exhale my shadow. I inhale my light.

On my mat I am swallowed by the light. I am fueled by love. I become encased in the protection of my knowing that all that matters is that I am here.

On my mat I cry. I scream. I laugh. I sleep. I leap for joy. I hug myself. I dream. I meditate. I see. I pray. I sing. And I cry some more.

On my mat I AM.