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Step Into the Fire, Pt. 2

Click here to read Step Into the Fire, Pt. 1

Last week I did something CRAY CRAY. (Well, at least for me.)

I have been wanting to do a photo shoot with yoga poses for my website but have kept talking myself out of it for the past year. So many excuses! Fear plays a good mind game, yes?

But not this time. 

the blessings butterfly wheel pose
Getting into Wheel Pose- Photo courtesy of Michael Powell Photography

This time, I realized my vision of me posing outside, literally on a sidewalk, in front of a huge graffiti mural. No tranquil beach scenes, no Crow, no palm trees gently swaying at sunset. Just me, my mat, and Broad frickin’ daylight.

the blessings butterfly triangle pose
I cannot stop smiling! Triangle Pose on the sidewalk? Sure! Photo courtesy Michael Powell Photography

My body did not hold me back. Fat thighs and a big belly did not hold me back. Fear of falling and not holding my headstand long enough to get the shot DID NOT HOLD ME BACK.  (I did not hold my headstand long enough to get the shot. But I sure as shit tried!)

the blessings butterfly, heart center
Starting my practice on a sidewalk near Downtown Long Beach. Photo courtesy Michael Powell Photography

Downtown, rough neighborhood drama all around… and me finding pure bliss in the midst of it. I was able to connect with my deepest self, and pray peace around me.

the blessings butterfly, gratitude
Pure gratitude- Photo courtesy Michael Powell Photography

I was able to extend my deepest love to the people we encountered today. Without fear and without judgement. Just … Love. ❤️

the blessings butterfly, lord of the dance pose
Standing in my power- feeling it! Lord of the Dance Pose- Photo courtesy Michael Powell Photography