I recall the night I met her. We arrived 20 min before the event and yet the room was full with about 100 people. Everyone had staked a seat, declaring their space. There was high energy in the air, a contagious wonderment and excitement of what is about to happen. Then… with a humble smile on her face, a soft shawl draped around her flowing dress and with high heeled shoes, she walked gracefully into the room. Her name is Tao Porchon-Lynch. At 97 years old, she is the world’s oldest yoga teacher.
She started by thanking us for being there. She spoke softly and kindly with a perennial smile on her face. She humbly said “sometimes, I wonder why people would want to hear about me.” She narrated her life from birth to present, all details will be part of a book to be published in January 2016. Her life, like everyone else’s, has ebbs and flows, highs and lows. In all her experiences, there was a noticeable common denominator. It was her enduring spirit, positive attitude, and consistent way of finding joy as each second of her life unfolded!
Weaved between the photographs that clearly demonstrated her mind, body, and spirit agility, were her pearls of wisdom. Here’s a few to reflect on:
Tao's Yoga practice and words of wisdom were truly inspiring.
“A smile is contagious.” (as she smiled some more)
Every breath we take, we are in touch with the Creator. When breath is gone, we quietly go back to the Earth. The body dies but the spirit lives on. When we breathe together, we are all one.”
“We are not about our physical age. We are about the energy people feel when we are around them.”
“What you bring into your mind materializes. Do not let your mind live with negative thoughts.”
“Nothing is impossible. Within you is the power to do great things. Harness it! Wake up every day feeling this is the best day of your life.”
We are not about our physical age; rather the energy we express to the world.
After that night, I felt deeply inspired and grateful. Inspired to hear how simple truths like these could possibly create major shifts in our lives. Grateful to know that one simple, purposeful breath is all it takes to connect us to the present, to a higher being, and to everyone around us.
Which of these quotes touch you and why? Feel free to comment below.