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<img class="size-medium wp-image-5176 alignleft" src="http://theyogasanctuary.biz/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/SUTRA-1-14-300x169.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="169" />Skipping ahead a few sutras to yoga sutra 1.14, which states, s<em>a tu dirghakala nairantarya satkarasevito drdhabhumih: </em>Practice that is done for a long time, without break and with sincere devotion becomes a firmly rooted, stable, and solid foundation. This is an important aspect of yoga practice—discipline. Showing up to practice on a regular basis without break. The real benefits of the practice are revealed when we dedicate ourselves to the practice long-term.

Have you ever found yourself straying from yoga practice and a voice pops into your head telling you, “I really need to get back to yoga”? Or have you ever begun a meditation practice only to leave it within a few weeks (or days)? You are certainly not alone. Your body and mind know that yoga makes you feel good in so many ways. But in order to sustain these good feelings, the practice needs to be consistent. Some days you will find a million excuses not to show up to your mat. Show up anyway. Some days you will be too busy to practice. Practice for five minutes anyway.

Start small. Don’t set a huge expectation that you won’t be able to meet. Set a goal to do a few sun salutations every day. Or sit for a five-minute meditation each morning. Some days you will have more time, and your practice will naturally last longer. Other days, a short practice will be enough. More than anything, your commitment to come back to your mat regularly is what will make the most difference.