You may have heard me speak about joint integrity and the need for a balance between strength and ease. In yoga it's referred to as Sthira and Sukham.

Sthira implies strength, steadiness and steadfastness that is free from strain, tension or rigidity. Sukham is derived from the word for sugar and implies relaxation, slack and ease. Sweetness.

In movement practice, known as Asana in yoga, this is the goal; to find ease in poses that also require strength. The ultimate goal is to translate that practice to how you move through life off the mat.

If yoga's not your thing, see if you can find this balance in any activity you enjoy! Strength and Ease. Practice it. Maybe even something as simple as relaxing your jaw as you are lifting something heavy. Several of you have reported an increase in neck and jaw tension. Does mask wearing contribute to this? Be aware of held tension related to the increased stress we are all feeling.

A friend reminded me of a quote the other day, "What you resist, persists."

May we all move into the new year with grace; with compassion and love for ourselves and each other.