The last two days I decided to give up my morning coffee ritual and roll my yoga mat instead. Besides, I can get to work a few minutes earlier and have my coffee there. I’ll be happier, calmer, and look like a dedicated employee who gets to work early! Everybody wins!
But here’s the problem. My morning coffee/email/Today Show ritual isn’t just my “me time.” It’s also my bonding-with-Penny-the-Puppy-Time. While I sip my coffee and check my email and write blogs, Penny brings me toys to throw for her. Then, eventually, she curls up in my lap for a few minutes of petting and baby talk before I have to get up and get ready for work.
My morning practice time isn’t “me time” either. I unroll my mat, Penny gets on. I do my first Downward Dog, Penny runs from across the room, between my legs and licks my face. I stand tall in Tadasana, a stuffed duck plops at my feet. Penny looks up at me, her tail wagging. “Please, oh, PLEASE will you throw this for me?,” say her big, brown eyes.
I feel incredibly, horribly guilty. It’s not exactly the inner peace I was looking for. But I think we can start a new morning ritual that we’ll both be happy about, right?
I have to shut my dogs and cat out of the room when I practise – especially early morning. I'd rather train them this isn't the time we spend together, than seem to ignore them. Its been working for me.
Now for the other item, I have a large cup of coffee right next to me, I actually place it on a block and I haven't tripped or knocked it over yet. Nothing says the practise has to be some non-stop ritual. I usually start off with floor positions and its right there for a break. In the evening I've been known to have a glass of wine sitting there instead. It all works
Penny sounds so sweet! My 2 big dogs don't bother with me when I do yoga now, but I have to put my chihuahua away before I get on the mat.
Maybe you can rough house with Penny for 5 minutes pre-yoga?
Nicki likes to come nudge me with her big nose when I'm meditating. She's convinced that exactly when she is supposed to be eating.