Open to new beginnings

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In the last few years yoga has become a great source of solace, happiness and inspiration for East Coast Breakfast Show host Keri Miller, who believes nothing is ever lost in meditation.

As we let go of what no longer serves us and open our hearts to all that 2022 has to offer Keri believes that this is YOUR TIME. ‘All you need to do is make a promise to YOU; that you will do your best to give yourself a little time, a little love and a little dedication.’

Reflecting on her yoga journey, she says nobody starts a new practice because they’re feeling great about themselves.

‘Yoga is for some a last resort at finding internal peace. I was 30-something, smoking a box a day, in a negative relationship, overweight with a mind that just would not stop. One day it all just got too much and the choices were this… end it now or make a very big life change.’

Seven years later, Keri is qualified to teach vinyasa (flow), Bikram (hot), sculpt (with little weights) and beginners yoga. She practices at home and at Gurucat Studio in Umhlanga where she teaches Tuesdays and Thursdays at 4.30pm.

Photo: Luca Barauss,Hair and make-up: Jacqui Trinder, Accentuate Hair and Makeup

A day in her life goes like this… She’s up before 4.30am, starts with a breathing exercise, then a hot shower followed by a very cold shower. Is off to work at 5.30am, home around 10.30am, followed by a nap, gym at 1pm, yoga at 4pm and in bed by 9pm. Outside of yoga, she’s passionate about her sister’s kids, learning languages, brain games, backgammon, whiskey and functional fitness training.

‘Many of us tend to expect life to be a smooth ride full of happiness, abundance, love and growth,’ says Keri, who admits that when reality doesn’t match our expectations we tend to break.

‘The more you bend, the stronger you are. This sounds so simple, yet it’s a wisdom we often forget. Mindfulness (and yoga) is a daily practice that builds a sense of self-love so you start learning to put YOU first. It shows us how to embrace the ebb and flow of life without running away from it when things get tough.’

One of the first things to do Keri says, is to remind yourself that being selfish is a necessity.

‘Among the many benefits of yoga is relief from anxiety, depression and unhappiness, something that has become a greater struggle for many since Covid. Yoga is a very healing but personal practice and the best thing to do is give it a try.’

Don’t opt for a gym or a YouTube yoga class, Keri says, rather go to an actual class at a yoga studio.

‘As long as you have a body, you are capable. Even if you have physical limitations, there is a practice suited to you. They say you are only as young as your spine is flexible. It’s about learning to work with what you have in a positive way and getting your head right. Everyone can benefit. If it resonates with you, go for it.’

At the beginning of a new year, most of us are reflective and more motivated. Rather than living by any permanent motto or setting herself unrealistic goals, Keri tries to apply ‘non-resistance’ as a way of life.

‘Resistance is the direct reason for suffering. In any situation there really are only two things we can do… accept it or change it. If you can’t change it, accept it so you are able to move on and heal.’

When it comes to mindfulness, Keri says this is literally living your life mindfully.

‘Take time in the day to do three to five deep breaths; stay off the phone; close your eyes for at least three minutes to meditate, breathe or pray. Journal daily and write down at least three things about your day or life that you are grateful for.’

She says yoga gives her the opportunity to connect with her body and feel one with her soul. ‘We should all be able to experience that. And when it comes to manifesting, you get what you think you deserve, and if you believe that you’re always exactly where you’re meant to be, you’ll always be at ease.’

Details: follow Keri Miller on IG: @kerimillersa where she randomly shares yoga tips or join her mindful women Soul Sisters group on FB: SOUL SISTERS with Keri Miller

If you’re up for trying something mindful, Keri says start by setting your intentions.

‘Do you believe that you can create your reality? Whether you do, or don’t – you are right. On one piece of paper, write down at least three things you want to let go of. These can be negative thoughts about something, an addiction or even physical ailments. On a separate piece of paper, write down at least three things you want to manifest, write them down as if you already have them. Then burn the paper. Yes, matches, a lighter or a candle (with a bowl of water nearby). Send your intentions up to the universe. Create your future. What do you have to lose? Worst case scenario, nothing changes. Best case scenario, EVERTYHING changes!’

CREDITS

Photo: Luca Barausse, www.lucaphotography.co.za, 082 495 5527,
Hair and make-up: Jacqui Trinder, Accentuate Hair and Makeup, 079 541 2551, www.professionalmakeupartist.co.za.

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