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I have so much to be grateful for in my life and yoga is one of them. So how
did yoga come into my life? In 1997 I’d just completed my Masters in
Education. The following summer, after my first year of teaching, I was
diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. It was quite shocking. A neurologist at
the Mayo Clinic suggested I try yoga to help with this diagnosis and potential
symptoms. I thought, “Why not?”

Thank God I did. I’ve now been practicing yoga for over 12 years. I began
teaching shortly after that. I’ve taught at fitness centers; my own elementary
schools, in MD and MN where I also taught students; I have taught private
lessons, at studios through out California, Ashkenaz and Haven Family
House.

Living with MS isn’t the end of the world. It can be a challenge, but rather
than looking at it as a "sickness," I look at it as a "dis-ease." Sometimes it
just isn't "easy." Having this wake up call, encourages me to be grateful for
my body and appreciate every day that I go without symptoms or discomfort.
Eating properly (according to the Swank Diet) also keeps me in great health.
Having this “internal barometer” guides me in what's worth worrying about and
what isn’t. I know what can happen when I try to overdo it.

Having Faith in greater things; faith in myself, a devoted husband, and now a
three year old son. A supportive family, good friends, along with my yoga
practice, all help keep me in check. Being able to practice yoga, both on
and off the mat, has helped me make it through the flare ups I sometimes
have to battle. Whether it's my asana practice (physical practice),
pranayama (breathing exercises), or just "being in me" (in meditation), yoga
has made a huge difference in my life. Let it make a difference in yours!

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Vijanabhairava Tantra ~ Sutra 22
“Forget all the ideas about the body-
It’s this or it’s that.
And just be with any part of the body,
this present body,
As is permeated with limitless space,
Drenched in freedom.”
~