Why I Love Yoga

Throughout my life, I have tried many forms of exercise to help me be fit. Outside of track in high school, I found it difficult to stay active. Friends who enjoyed taking classes at the gym would recommend a class or two to tryout. The class I went to seemed to only have been for those with a history of dance. Fancy step platforms and energetic Barbie, motioning her hands to the right as she did a step, clap and kick to the other side. Wait. What? I’d go left as the others went right and punch when I should have kicked. I felt like Frankenstein. Encouraging words of you just have to keep coming and you’ll get the hang of it. Unfortunately, it wasn’t just that; I longed for something much different. One day while rummaging through the clearance bin at the department store a workout video caught my attention. The woman pictured looked strong, long and fit. The benefits of yoga listed seemed good enough to at least give it a try. For days I would just watch the two of them (the woman on front as well her fit male partner) demonstrate different poses. I finally joined them on our floor and gave a half attempt thinking “I’m no where near that flexible.”; but that didn’t stop me from trying again and again. I begin yoga with just the desire to have a lean, sculpted, strong body frame not fully knowing of all of the powerful benefits of healing. Not too long after I joined a gym where they offered yoga classes. I enjoyed it. There was something about just sitting there for moments, the lights were lower, and the only noise I could hear in the distance was the whirling of a few treadmills and cycles. We were guided to the breath and while at first it seemed odd I noticed that as I remained committed to this process I became more relaxed. I found myself able to do what the instructor had guided; tune out and really tune in. Instead of the stress I usually felt of everything going on around me, I released and allowed it all to dissipate in that moment. At the end of class I wanted to hug the instructor, but settled for a more traditional “Class was great! Thank you.” This was the first time I ever left a gym feeling so relax; yet the perfect amount of movement and breath work to signify a solid good workout had just taken place. So here are just a few of the reasons why after all these years I really still love yoga.

1. Yoga means “yolk”. The union of the mind, body, and spirit.It felt like a physical prayer. One of the first practices that I felt like I was observing not only myself through the self, but truly connecting in a physical way of honoring the Divine Creator.
2. The practice of yoga on the mat translates into everyday life. You take it with you; the lessons, the breathing, the patience to peace, the joy, the inner stillness and the listening. It shows up in how we move in our daily lives. Your whole being and it continues to move through you in a very unique way.
3. The transformation begins with the feeling good, talking good and then that dedicated practice turned into observing mindfulness in everything.
4. It’s referred to as Practice. We reframe the passage of “Practice makes perfect.” And tune into the knowing that Practice makes possible! I used to say damaging affirmations like I am not flexible. As I kept rolling out my mat, postures continued to evolve and I began to move with a fluidity I had never experienced before.
5. The breath work assisted with handling and alleviating stress. The frustrated co-worker, the busy mom and nagging wife began to take more time reflecting on the relationships I desired to attract. When I felt myself getting frustrated, angry or agitated; I paused to observe my breath and visualize the ability to shift my reaction.
6. The listening and observing of the breath transferred to taking note on what I observed in thought. What arguments were looping and which ones had really occurred? Ever try to guess what you think someone will say or do? Or hear the same conversation or disagreement looping? It hasn’t happened and yet our mind will register as if we’re really experiencing it. Life is really about remaining present and engaging fully in the here and now.
7. Last, but not really my last; just last for this blog☺️! It’s for EVERYONE. All ages can practice yoga! From the very little to the well seasoned in life seniors. Yoga does not just remain on the mat. It can be practiced on a chair for those who have limitations or in a swing for those who enjoy flying. Expecting Mama’s can practice yoga to improve labor and delivery. Professional athletes as well as student athletes are incorporating yoga as part of their workout to improve their overall performance.

So there you have it, just a few reasons why I love yoga and why I am so grateful to share this form of healing with others. I truly hope that if you’ve never tried yoga that you give it a try. If you have tried and it’s been a while, that you try again. There’s so many variety of classes, levels, flows and one that is just absolutely perfect for you!


Keep moving. Stay healthy!


Namaste


Liability Disclaimer: Prior to beginning any level of physical activity such as yoga; it is advise that you see and/or consult your healthcare provider especially if you have a history of significant illnesses, health concern or previous injury. Always listen to your body. .