When it comes to my yoga practice, I can always think of 1001 reasons to skip it. Rushing to get some work done before my one-year-old daughter wakes up in the morning, taking her to a local park before I need to cook her dinner or put her to bed at night are just some of my excuses why I can’t do yoga or meditate. Being a new mum and a businesswoman who is trying to juggle far too much at the same time has definitely turned my world upside down, and with this new role came somewhat different order of priorities.

Yet I am not giving up on myself and my yoga practice! Although it might not be on the top of my list right now, yoga has always been a part of my life (at least for the last 12 years) and it is still there with me whenever and wherever I go. Perhaps the most important thing yoga taught me is that you don’t necessary have to roll out your mat every day to enjoy what yoga has to offer. That’s the magic – you don’t need anything but yourself embracing the present moment.

As you have probably found out by now, whether through your own practice or studies, yoga is not only about the exercise but a holistic lifestyle that works as much on your physical body as it does on your mind and spirit. The beauty is that you can reach out for many of its techniques and tools when you need to, no matter of the time and space. So remember, before you start feeling guilty again that you missed your morning Sun Salutation for running into a business meeting, there is always a way to bring yoga in your life and it can be easier than you might think.

Letting go is the key, together with a pinch of focus and persistence. I find that whenever I step away from certain situation or experience and stop fighting it or trying too hard, I suddenly feel my body and mind relaxes and I see everything with a new pair of eyes, appreciating what I have and what I do a bit more. Whether it’s a yoga posture, meditation, breathing exercise or mantra that does the trick is not important, I am simply grateful for having the knowledge at my fingertips when needed. You might be surprised these random acts of mindfulness could make you feel as good as if you have just come out of a two hour yoga session.

If you feel lost in your yoga practice, don’t know where to start or how to get back to it and find yourself too busy to commit to your weekly class, try to include some of the following simple exercises into your daily routines and activities. They may work for you as much as they work for me...

• Practice yoga in bed - When you wake up in the morning, try the first yoga position that comes to mind. For example, you could try the Spinal Twist, Bridge, Cat, Leg Raises, Fish, Locust or just simple wrist and ankle rotations – always remember to be gentle on your stiff body.
• Get the balance right – When you are brushing your teeth, standing in queue or waiting for your train, use your time to practice a Tree pose by balancing on one leg – don’t forget to change to the other leg to get the balance right.
• Beat the traffic – There's nothing worse than being stuck in a traffic jam when you are already running late. Try to release the stress and anger by singing or reciting your favourite mantra aloud. You might even bring a smile to your fellow drivers’ faces while they are watching you having a good time.
• Enjoy your meal – Use your lunch break or your evening meal for some serious food meditation and practice a sattvic way of dining. Prepare a light and fresh vegetarian meal and enjoy every single bite you take by chewing on it at least 12 times while exploring its texture, flavour, temperature as well as inhaling its fragrance. This practice will not only help your digestion but you will also experience a better clarity and contentment.
• Child’s play – My daughter loves taking part in my yoga practice with the Lion pose probably being her most favourite. By picking up several animal poses such as Cobra, Butterfly, Cat, Downward dog, Lion or Fish and turning them into a play, you might not end up only with a devoted audience but get yourself a new yoga buddy too.
• Give breath a chance – Remember to breathe, anytime and anywhere! Use your abdominal muscles and diaphragm when you inhale deeply and exhale slowly with control. Only a few minutes of conscious breathing exercise will make a massive difference and helps you release a steam or bring back your focus. Great to do on a long train journey, before giving an important speech or presentation and to escape an argument.

YOGAlicious: What style of yoga is right for me?

About the author
A certified yoga teacher, massive fan of all things wellbeing, entrepreneur and mum to a gorgeous little girl, Michaela Olexova has travelled the world and influenced by her travels, coming across many wonderful people, cultures and rituals, she decided to share her passion and experience with people who wish to find a way to a more healthy and balanced life through her inspirational guide to wellbeing at www.thebaoli.com.