I have always loved the way I feel after taking a yoga class.
What do I love about yoga?
- The flow of asanas, the challenge of getting into a difficult asana.
- Feeling rejuvenated after class.
- Being calm and centered when I leave my mat.
I know that I have an outlet for myself in times of stress – just a couple sun salutations and I ALWAYS feel better. I have learned that asanas are wonderful for my body, but also a huge benefit to my mind.
Furthermore, I have come to love and appreciate the way my body can move and the amazing things it is capable of. I feel stronger and leaner. I have lost a little weight. I have an acceptance of my body that I have never had before. I used to be very critical of my body, but I have come to believe that this body is amazing with all that it can do, and I am grateful for it.
I am much less critical of myself. I have much more self confidence. I feel strong, but also loose. I have gained flexibility through the asanas. I am at less risk for injury in my life and my work. My balance and endurance have improved as a result of my practice as well.
I have gained so much through the importance of the breathwork while practicing asanas. It amazes me that I can truly be present during asana, because of the focus on the breath. I have had people say to me that they could never do yoga because they “can’t get out of their own head.” And I tell them that it takes practice, and that it is so worth it to be able to give yourself a break from everything else going on around them!
My asana practice has definitely made me more aware of both my body and my mind.
I feel so much more in tune with my body, in the way it moves, in the ways it reacts to what I eat or how I’m feeling. I can tell when something in my body is “off,” and I now feel like I have tools to re-center and readjust.
It is much the same with my mind.
I am much more cognizant of fluctuations in my thoughts and emotions. I perceive shifts in my emotions more readily, and am able to catch myself before I get out of control.
I used to be much more of a hot-head.
Now, I am often able to take a step back, with a breath or a moment of thoughtful meditation, and I am becoming a more tranquil, a less excitable person (definitely still working on this though!!).
In becoming more aware of my body and mind, I have no doubt that this has allowed me to have more meaningful interactions with people around me. I have become a better listener, more empathetic, less likely to just react or respond, and more likely to think before I say or do anything I might regret.
It is great for me to be able to reflect on the different ways that asana has affected my life. I know that I am worthy of taking time for myself to do my practice. I know that I am better me because of it.
THIS is why I yoga. K.K.
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