My friend Holly has been doing yoga for some time now and she swears that it is the most calming, rejuvenating part of her day. One particular evening, I was feeling the need for this "calming of the mind" (even if it only lasted for the duration of the class), so I decided to join her.
Thirty minutes later, I stood in front of Indie Yoga located in Ocean Beach, eagerly awaiting my very first yoga class. When Holly arrived, she introduced me to the instructor and we headed for the classroom door, yoga mats in tow (yes I do own one... Haha). I failed to mention that this particular yoga studio is heated... By heated, I mean the room is heated to a toasty 98-104 degrees. Upon opening the door I was immediately reminded of the sweltering summer heat of my home state which, up to this point, I had blissfully evaded.
And so the class began... Maybe 5 minutes in, my head is damp with perspiration... Maybe 20 minutes in, my back arms and legs are slick with sweat... An hour later, my clothes could easily wring out a pint...
I'm sure you're thinking, "Why not run for the door? How the hell could anyone enjoy this???!!!". Truth is, the instructor was extremely inspirational in her teaching, she made us aware of the benefits of each posture (i.e. "This posture promotes superior thyroid function and fertility..." or "This posture helps regulate blood pressure... "etc.), she was encouraging, and helped beginners like myself modify and helped make adjustments to our bodies so that we benefited from every pose. Additionally, the atmosphere was SUPER SOOTHING!!! The dim glow of candles was terrifically tranquil, and the music was calming and had a great rhythm.
So, sure, it was undoubtedly difficult, but I felt no reason to leave... I was honestly at peace, being in the moment and feeling the movement of my body with (AT LAST) a still mind... I have to say I am HOOKED!!!
Since we are short on funds, I have resorted to practicing at home with videos. However, each day I look forward to having this little hour of the day devoted to to clearing my mind, so that I am able to focus my energy towards what is most important (for me, that is self-acceptance and love, patience, kindness, and respect and appreciation of others) rather than scattering my energy to the many unnecessary and superficial concerns that may be plaguing me.
The most significant and influential element I have learned through my yoga practice is breath... After all, our breath reminds us we are alive and here with a purpose... Each inhale represents a fresh start, with each exhale disposing of the old and that which does not serve us. What a beautiful idea!!!
SOOOO... JUST BREATHE!!!
If you are interested in learning more about yoga, I have found these links quite informative:
http://www.yogamovement.com/resources/benefits.html
http://www.webmd.com/balance/the-health-benefits-of-yoga
http://www.healthyoga.com/articles/Top_10_Benefits_of_Yoga.php
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