I am reminded of the wonders of the earth mother everyday. Witnessing and experiencing cycles of building and destruction like the ebb and flow of the tidal waters. This experience is one that I’ve taken solace in.

Growing up in the green laced city of Oakland, CA and working with plants, then moving to the asphalt streets of New York, where the buildings themselves grow towards the sky line, mimicking trees competing for sunlight, ascending towards the heavens.

I see underneath it all, an opportunity to reflect, learn, and take new and inspired action.

This is a time to reflect, teach, and learn about what we can do to protect our most precious asset, our planet. I find it a little absurd to dedicate just one day to celebrating the beautiful,resilient, abundant, affirming, forgiving, vital, and sensuous mother earth. It’s like waiting until mother’s day to show your mom just how much you love and honor her.

We often take for granted the gift of life, food, water, land, all of which are sacred and provided without limit to us. In return we must make a daily practice of giving thanks and teaching our children reverence for the earth which their children will inherit. There are so many ways to honor and celebrate mother earth.

The easiest way to honor the planet is to help others develop a visceral connection to our earth. This is best fostered in children, (through the introduction of life-cycles, seasonality, plant and animal life, introducing concepts like recycling, composting, eating fresh foods, and preserving water during daily activities) who develop a life long appreciation and concern for our planet, but can be seen in adults who can be inspired to change when their hearts are touched.

As I was teaching my Mama Glow! prenatal yoga class on Earth Day, I witnessed beautiful women grounded in pregnancy, carrying the blessing of new life within themselves and still moving fluidly with grace through their asana practice. I am inspired by expecting mothers because they are the humble vessels that share their body space with spirit as it takes form into flesh.

Governed by the cycles of the moon, we hold the whole world in our wombs. The Ujaii pranayama (victorious breathing) echoing through the room, like the calming sound of the ocean, the blossoming bellies round and abundant, shining forth, ripe with life, the universal sound of OM reverberating in our wombs, and our hearts…it was this that reminded me of the elements at work creating, growing and sustaining new life.

It is this that constantly amazes me and teaches me. The earth is indeed alive around and within us all.

Happy Earth Day!