Pilates and Inner Peace

Why is it so difficult for us to be still and focus on our breath?  It's a seemingly easy task that becomes alarmingly difficult to do in the midst of our chaotic modern lives.  We are constantly distracted by other people, places and the millions of things we have on our to do lists.  Quite frequently we are disturbed and annoyed by other people!  So much in fact that we eclipse our own happiness and ability to be present in the moment.
I know, what does that have to do with Pilates?  Well, when we approach Pilates or exercise as a distraction from our chaotic lives or we can't let go of our annoyance with others we lose our connection to ourselves and our inherent peaceful nature.  How can we relax our shoulders or engage our abdominals when we are irritated, frustrated and annoyed?
Next time you let the behavior of others destroy your sense of inner peace ask yourself why it is beneficial to do so. Is it helpful to yourself or the other person?  Does it accomplish anything useful?
If the answer to these questions is 'no' then let it go and reside in your natural state of peace and joy :)