For me, clarity came during one of the hardest and most life-changing decisions: quitting alcohol. Imagine stepping off a sinking ship, only to realize you're not boarding a yacht—you’re treading water in an endless, uncharted ocean, wondering what comes next. Sobriety became my lifeboat, but in the beginning, it felt more like a shaky paddleboard.

A year into my journey of alcohol-free living, I had a revelation: my drinking wasn’t just an escape; it was an anchor preventing me from facing life head-on. I thought cutting the rope would liberate me, but it left me adrift, overwhelmed by the raw waves of unfiltered reality. While I was physically sober, emotionally, I was in turmoil.

That’s when I discovered the transformative power of Ashtanga yoga. It didn’t just help me stay afloat—it became my compass, guiding me through life’s stormy seas.

Finding My “Why” in Ashtanga Yoga

Initially, my motivation for starting an Ashtanga yoga practice was simple: I needed a healthy way to calm my chaotic mind without turning to alcohol, binge-watching TV, or other distractions. The physical discipline of yoga gave me something tangible to focus on, but it was the meditative flow and breathwork (pranayama) that truly drew me in. Pose by pose, breath by breath, I found moments of clarity—something I hadn’t felt in years.

Staying Committed When Yoga Feels Hard

The yogic journey is not a straight line. There are days when rolling out my yoga mat feels harder than the most advanced pose. Progress can feel slow, like waiting for a download on dial-up internet. During these times, my “why” becomes my lifeline.

When doubts arise, I have to ask myself:

- What am I learning about myself today?

- How can I honor my practice, even when it feels messy or imperfect?

- What kind of person am I becoming through this journey?

These questions act as a lifebuoy for me, keeping me afloat during challenging days. They remind me that showing up—sweaty, imperfect, and sometimes frustrated—is where the real transformation begins.

The Benefits of Ashtanga Yoga: A Lifelong Journey

Practicing Ashtanga yoga taught me more than how to hold a pose. It showed me how to balance my emotions and navigate life’s uncertainties. Transformation isn’t about flipping a switch or cutting ties—it’s about learning to ride the waves of life, I know that now.

One of my favorite quotes goes, "Yoga is not about touching your toes, it's about what you learn on your way down." - Jigar Gor

OM Shanti!

-Sober Sailor in Warrior Pose 🌊