Try Something New in the New Year
January 11, 2016Yoga: Thoughts from a Non Yogi
Yes, You Should Try it!
I am no yogi. Fitness enthusiast, yes, but yoga has never been my thing. I have dabbled in it here and there trying both ashtanga yoga and hot yoga. My thoughts? Like every new-to-me exercise class, I was excited to get out of my comfort zone and try it. While I did like the way I felt after, I didn’t have a lot of fun during the class. Yes, I know what you are thinking: how can exercise be fun? It’s like your mother always said, “you don’t know until you try it.” Just because yoga isn’t my exercise of choice doesn’t mean it can’t be yours! I thought it was only fair to share my personal story about yoga because there might be readers struggling to find their form of fitness to look forward to and I am here to say, “give it a shot, you just never know!”
Let’s start with the basics of yoga. According to yogabasics.com, yoga is a vast collection of spiritual techniques and practices aimed at integrating mind, body, and spirit to achieve a state of enlightenment or oneness with the universe. Sounds deep. Yes, it can be. I have heard there are some avid yogis that can get quite emotional during a practice. I totally embrace this freedom and I think it’s great that people can use yoga to clear their minds.
I will admit that I felt very out of place the first time I practiced yoga. Because of this, I didn’t fully “let go.” I felt very stiff. However, who doesn’t feel uncomfortable being the “new guy?” I think back to the first time I started lifting weights. I had no idea what I was doing. But, I studied and learned from some of the best teachers (I think) around. You have to start somewhere.
While every yoga practice is different, I feel like you can prep the same for each class. You want to wear comfortable body hugging/moisture absorbing clothing, a mat, towel, and water. Intimidated because you aren’t flexible? Doesn’t matter. You move at your own pace. Just like any form of exercise, you rest when you need to. Don’t overdo it just because people can see you – they all started somewhere too.
Do I see myself fully practicing yoga? Probably not. Would I try other classes? Absolutely. Start 2016 off with a fearless attitude. Try yoga. Try personal training. Try anything new! Don’t let another unhealthy year slip by. Put your health and well-being first. Cheers to a new and exciting year!
