KESS YOGA

My introduction to yoga was, as it is for so many, confusing. I wasn't really sure if I wanted to do it or not, but seeing the changes in a close friend physically and mentally I thought I would give it a try. Before you know it, I was calling to have him put a mat down in class to save me a spot as I raced from work.

 

When you first begin your yoga practice it can be very overwhelming. It was no different for me. You are learning new things in each class. Between the names of the postures, the different language (Sanskrit) that they are spoken in and the physical aspect of trying to position your body to bend and stretch in ways it may not have before... it can be very discouraging. This is why we call it a practice. 

 

Yoga is not an art of perfection. There is not an end or a place that you will get to and be finished. You will continue to evolve forever.  It is important to allow yourself to enjoy the learning stages and the process of improvement. 

 

Try to focus on appropriate postures for your energy level and mood on a particular day. You are working on letting go of all judgment and negativity, letting go of the relentless inner critic, letting go of the idea of perfection. And always remembering to honor yourself throughout your practice by being mindful of your limitations and doing the best that you can on that day.

 

I believe that no matter how hard we try there are times in our lives when things spin out of control. There is always some kind of stress or anxiety whether we've created it, or someone else is causing it. This is why we need yoga. 

 

Yoga is a safe haven...that safe place where we go to take care of ourselves and focus on our well being.  Whether you are practicing on your own or with others you are free to work at your own pace and comfort level. 

 

I have taught many classes where a student has just received awful news or had the worst day and they say to me, "I am so happy to be here. I may not do anything but lay there through the whole class but I'm here!" and that is fine. Yoga offers you that space and time to release the tension and stress that accumulates in your body through your busy life.  

 

We all need to allow that time for ourselves so that we will remain healthy and well and be there for others when they need us.  It is hard work being healthy and fit. You don't get to take a vacation from taking care of yourself. So be sure to keep your yoga & fitness routine part of your regular schedule working other things around it.