The Journey, Not the Destination: Reflections from the Mat

In a yoga class recently, I found myself reflecting on something unexpected. It wasn’t the flow of the poses or the rhythm of my breath, but a fellow participant’s persistent need to blow their nose. Every few minutes, there it was—a pause, a tissue, a sound. At first, I’ll admit, I was distracted, but then curiosity crept in. Here was someone who, by all appearances, led a healthy lifestyle, yet they were still dealing with something as human and imperfect as mucus.

It got me thinking about the idea of a destination. We often see health, personal growth, or success as a place we’ll eventually reach—a point where everything clicks, and we finally “arrive.” Yet, even this yogi, immersed in the same mindful practice, still had her own realities to navigate. Her “destination” was fluid, just like mine.

This seemingly mundane moment became an opportunity for a deeper realization: the arrival we seek is often fleeting. We may hit milestones—physical fitness, emotional clarity, career achievements—but they’re never permanent endpoints. There’s always more life to live, more growth to pursue, more mucus to clear (literally and figuratively).

Recognizing the Pull of the Future

This insight forced me to confront my own tendency to live for the destination. I like to think I’ve done the work to release much of my past—letting go of the stories and struggles that no longer serve me. But if I’m being honest, my focus often projects forward. I find myself planning, dreaming, and imagining what could be.

It’s in my nature. As someone who thrives on inspiration and vision, I naturally look to the future. It’s where ideas take shape and potential comes alive. But what this yoga class reminded me is that there’s a cost to living too far ahead. The future is a mirage—it hasn’t happened yet, and it might not unfold the way I expect. The only place life is truly happening is here and now.

The Practice of Staying Present

One of my favorite teachings from Baron Baptiste is that the present moment is the only reality. Everything else—whether it’s the past I’ve left behind or the future I’m striving toward—is either memory or imagination. And yet, staying present is anything but easy.

Living in the moment requires practice. It’s not something we check off a list and master once and for all. It’s a process—a series of intentional actions and tools that bring us back to where we are, over and over again. Breathwork, mindfulness, movement, and gratitude are just a few of the ways I ground myself in the now.

A Continuous Journey

The idea that “the journey is the destination” might feel cliché, but moments like this remind me of its truth. Life isn’t about arriving at some perfect version of ourselves. It’s about walking the path with curiosity, compassion, and a willingness to embrace the messy, unpredictable moments that shape us.

So, whether it’s in a yoga class, a quiet morning at home, or a challenging conversation, I’m learning to notice where my mind is. Am I here, in the moment, or am I elsewhere—revisiting the past or rehearsing the future? And when I find myself drifting, I gently guide myself back.

Because this moment, imperfect as it may be, is the only one I truly have.

How about you? Do you find yourself caught in the pull of the past or the future? What helps you stay grounded in the present? I’d love to hear your thoughts and practices—let’s keep this conversation going.