~Neale Donald Walsh
For many of us, change can present itself as a challenging obstacle, especially when we have grown accustomed to certain methods of doing what we do. Although that content feeling we experience in routines can be comforting, it is important for us to have room in our hearts and minds for adaptability if and when change may arise.
I have always loved the quote “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone,” mainly because it reinforces the message that, regardless of how inconvenient it may seem, change has the potential to result in something truly wonderful. Take a change in diet for example. An individual may feel comfortable eating a certain way, simply because it is convenient and what they are used to, but stepping outside of that comfort zone by making small changes towards adapting a healthier eating plan could make all the difference for that individual’s overall health, happiness, and well-being.
On a personal note, I began my journey in a yoga teacher training program this month, and I could not be more excited. Although I am incredibly busy as a college senior and perfectly content with being a student of yoga, I am stepping outside of my comfort zone (big time) and challenging myself to deepen my practice, manage my schedule and stress, and ultimately share my love of yoga with others!
In the photo above, you see a beautiful mountain (Mt. Washington, to be exact!) and my dad, happily posing to show what he has accomplished and what he will accomplish when he reaches the top. Climbing Mt. Washington is something we have done together each year for the past 5 years, but this adventure is one that really doesn’t allow for comfort zones, especially considering the wildly unpredictable weather that this mountain is known for. We have hiked on gorgeous, blue-sky sunny days, as well as in snow, fog, and 74 mph winds (no exaggeration) that required me to crawl along the rocky areas of the summit to prevent myself from falling over. My dad’s strength and determination in these circumstances, as in many others, inspired me to push through my challenges in order to ultimately feel that tear-jerking rush at the top. I can only hope that these words may serve as inspiration to him, as well as anyone else who is challenging themself to overcome an obstacle. 
