As I get better at something my experience of it, in the moment is ever changing. Most noticeable is my perception of time while practicing. When something is new seems as if time is flying by. It seems as if I couldn't quite keep up with what is happening. The experience of time like this is exhilarating, exciting, enticing... which is why I continue.  This "time flying feeling" is also out of control and frustrating. That frustration occurs because in those moments I am not making choices about how to proceed. I am only reacting.

The most profound experience that happens as I improve is time seems to slow down. I can almost witness the present moment. I can have moments of truly embodying present moment to moment awareness. And consciously choosing a path of action from that moment. 

This experience has been the most clear to me as I practice dancing tango. I practice a lot of technique and dance countless hours weekly. After years of practice I have moments in tango where my connection to my body, my breath, the moment, my partner, the music are so simple and so sweet and joyful that it must be momentary enlightenment.

The countless hours of practicing dancing technique in order to be a better dancer is like getting on the mat in order to be better at living life. Practicing YOGA is like practicing life. All those hours, every week, for years we spend on the mat or the zafu are teaching us how to see the moment for what it is: an opportunity for awakening. With that awakening comes consciously choosing the path that time unfolds before us. 

As I practice more yoga I am better able to act with intention rather than reacting impulsively. This is the work. This is the practice. With the practice comes immense freedom.