Life has been a whirlwind lately, hasn’t it? Or is it just me?

The past few years have been marked by unprecedented challenges and changes. The global pandemic, social upheavals, economic shifts, big losses, and personal transformations have collectively stirred a perfect storm, pushing us to grow in unexpected ways.

It hasn’t been easy—far from it. Pain, heartache, and grief have been constant companions for many I know over the last few years. Yet, amidst the turmoil, there has been an undeniable emergence of good, of transformation, and of profound growth.

For me, the past few years has been nothing short of monumental. I went through a divorce, moved to a new place, experienced seismic shifts in my support circle, lost friends and family, started new jobs, and essentially underwent a complete identity overhaul. It sounds overwhelming because it was.

I won’t sugarcoat it. There have been days when I’ve struggled immensely. It hasn’t been all rainbows and butterflies. Growth, as beautiful as it can be, often demands the destruction of the old to make way for the new. My old life was shattered and the process of rebuilding it has been both painful and liberating. Friends I once counted on disappeared, leaving a void that hurt deeply. Yet, despite the heartache, I can say with conviction that my life has never felt better. Allow me to share why.

The Journey Through Yoga: Embracing Alignment

Since I started practicing yoga in 2013, my journey has been one of passionate pursuit of alignment. Yoga, with its profound and honest examination of life, has challenged me to evaluate whether my choices and actions reflect my true self. It has been an excavation of all the masks and falsehoods I hid behind, offering tools and practices to live in deeper alignment with my highest truth.

What is Alignment?

Alignment means being true to our deepest, inner selves. It’s not about fitting in or living to please others. It’s about showing up as our perfect, unique, soul expressions. It’s about understanding who we are, not caring about external judgments, and having the courage to be authentically ourselves.

Steps to Achieve Alignment

Achieving alignment is a journey, often requiring deep introspection and courage. Here are some steps that have helped me align with my true self:

1. Self-Reflection and Awareness: Begin by observing your thoughts, emotions, and actions. Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection. Ask yourself if your daily actions and choices align with your core values and beliefs.

2. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, or simply spending time in nature. These practices help quiet the mind and connect you with your inner self.

3. Identify Your Core Values: Clarify what truly matters to you. Write down your core values and use them as a compass for making decisions.

4. Let Go of What No Longer Serves You: This can be one of the hardest steps. It might mean letting go of toxic relationships, unfulfilling jobs, or limiting beliefs. Trust that releasing these elements creates space for what aligns with your true self.

5. Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to things that drain your energy or don’t align with your values. Protect your time and energy for what truly matters.

6. Embrace Authenticity: Be honest with yourself and others about who you are. Authenticity attracts genuine connections and opportunities that resonate with your true self.

7. Seek Support: Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage your growth. This might mean finding a mentor, joining a supportive community, or seeking professional guidance.

8. Be Patient and Compassionate: Alignment is a journey, not a destination. Be patient with yourself and practice self-compassion. Growth takes time, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way.

A Moment of Realization

Today, I realized that I’m finally living in alignment. This profound feeling struck me during a retreat last weekend in southern Colorado. At one of the sacred sites we visited, while meditating, I saw a golden spiral of energy connecting us to earth and sky. It was a visual representation of alignment, and I understood that when we are in alignment, that’s when the magic really happens in our lives. And that alignment is simpler than we think; not easy, but simple.

The Work of Alignment

Achieving alignment hasn’t been easy. It has taken years of deep, introspective work. It has required me to let go of old patterns, relationships, and beliefs that no longer served me. It has been about embracing the truth of who I am and having the courage to live that truth every day.

Embracing the Path Forward

While the journey has been challenging, it has also been incredibly rewarding. Living in alignment has brought a sense of peace and fulfillment that I never imagined possible. As I continue on this path, I am committed to staying true to myself, to living my highest truth, and to embracing the magic that comes with alignment.

If you find yourself in a similar place of transformation, know that you are not alone. The path to alignment is not easy, but it is worth every step. Embrace the journey, let go of what no longer serves you, and have the courage to live your truth. The magic of alignment awaits.

Journaling for Alignment

Here are some journal questions that can help guide you on your journey to alignment:

1. Self-Reflection and Awareness

   • What are my core values, and how do they show up in my daily life?
   • In what areas of my life do I feel most aligned with my true self?
   • Are there any areas where I feel out of alignment? Why?

2. Mindfulness and Presence

   • How do I currently incorporate mindfulness into my daily routine?
   • What activities help me feel most connected to the present moment?
   • How can I create more space for mindfulness in my life?

3. Authenticity and Self-Expression

   • When do I feel most authentically myself?
   • Are there situations or relationships where I feel like I’m not being true to myself?
   • What steps can I take to show up more authentically in my life?

4. Letting Go and Making Space

   • What people, habits, or beliefs no longer serve my highest good?
   • What fears or doubts are holding me back from living in alignment?
   • How can I gently release these things from my life?

5. Setting Boundaries

   • Where in my life do I need to set firmer boundaries?
   • How do I currently protect my time and energy?
   • What can I do to ensure my boundaries are respected?

6. Purpose and Passion

   • What activities or pursuits make me feel most alive and fulfilled?
   • How can I incorporate more of these passions into my daily life?
   • What is my vision for my highest, most aligned self?

7. Support and Connection

   • Who are the people that truly support and uplift me?
   • How can I nurture and strengthen these supportive relationships?
   • Are there new communities or connections I’d like to explore?

8. Gratitude and Positivity

   • What am I most grateful for in my life right now?
   • How can I cultivate more gratitude and positivity in my daily life?
   • What are three positive things that happened today?

9. Challenges and Growth

   • What challenges have I faced recently, and what have they taught me about myself?
   • How have I grown through these challenges?
   • What strengths have I discovered or developed as a result?

10. Future Vision

    • What does a fully aligned life look and feel like for me?
    • What steps can I take today to move closer to that vision?
    • How will I know when I am living in alignment with my highest self?

These questions can serve as a starting point for deep self-exploration and help guide you towards living a more aligned, authentic life.