Constant Companion

"Mommy, dis is my heart. You always in my heart."
~ Andersen, age 4


As founder and CEO of Yogiños: Yoga for Youth® I spend a few days a month out of town. This regular travel started when my youngest kiddo, Andersen, was about 2 years old. It was still too abstract of a concept for her to fathom that I was leaving AND coming back, as well as comprehend the short the time in between.

"Ander, here's the thing. When I am away, you are always in my heart. And I am always in your heart. So really, we are never really apart," I shared each time I gave her big see-you-soon hugs and kisses.

By the time Andersen was 3 years old, we would have sweet conversations on the phone. I remember her starting to say, "Mommy... I miss you, but it's otay because you in my heart, and I in yours."

Me and Ander (18 months).

(insert tears)


I recall feeling both amazed and sad that this young person was starting to grasp such a gigantic concept. There are people who come into our lives who are special whether we see them everyday or not. Physical presence is only part of being a good friend, a compatible companion. Andersen helps teach me that constant companions are about internal commitment and not merely external proximity. (My kids are some of my best gurus. ;-) )


Constant companions or vehicles are popular in the Hindu culture and faith. Garuda is known as the vehicle or mount for Vishnu. Instead of going into detail about the extraordinary story of how they came to be companions, I highly recommend viewing Amy's Art Talk: Vishnu & Garuda. This is a bonus film on the new DVD, Vishnu's OHMazing™ Journeys.

"Garuda is half man, half bird, and an emblem of speed and strength," writes Kristina Hilliard, Director of Interpretation and Community Engagement at the Crow Collection of Asian Art.

For me, the best part of the story about how Garuda became Vishnu's vehicle is that Garuda decided that Vishnu was always in his heart.

Who is always in your heart? Who carries you in their hearts?

Here I invite you to cultivate strength, balance and focus and practice Garudasana, eagle pose.

Shanti ~ Peace ~ Paz,
Beth