Yogi Island

 When you step onto your yoga mat, you are as on a deserted island. Although in reality there are mats to your left and to your right, and you anticipate brushing hands with a neighbor at some point during the next hour, you need only focus on what You are doing and where You are. No need to compare backbends with the guy next door; every reason to sit out a sun salutation in child's pose because you had a tough day. You carry who you are today into your yoga practice -- not who you were yesterday or who you will be tomorrow. If you feel open and energetic you can turn your Wild Thing into a Wheel; if you feel the need to nurture yourself, Tame Thing may be your choice (you can create that pose yourself!). No need to keep up or to hold back. If you resist judging yourself, you will find your best practice. If you resist judging your neighbor, they will respond in kind. 

But if you feel a giggle coming up as you attempt a seemingly impossible pose, let it out -- I'm sure your neighbors could use a laugh, too!