What came to your mind when you first heard the word “yoga”? Those fakirs who have been practicing yoga for decades and seem to float above worldly concerns? (You almost assume they’ve been practicing it for several lifetimes…) Or perhaps scantily clad young ladies bending gracefully? That was my initial perception.
Certainly, I didn’t imagine Buddha with his noticeably protruding belly. Consequently, in my first “real” yoga class, after deciding to continue post-pregnancy and postnatal yoga, I felt insecure. I felt too cumbersome, too awkward, too untrained.
The fact that I stumbled halfway through the series of sun salutations didn’t make things any easier. (I just had to choose power yoga, after all.) And yet, in yoga, I discovered something. A part of myself.
Things might seem better next door. But there’s no need to be envious!
Yoga isn’t a competition? Easier said than done. If only because balancing in unusual postures becomes much more challenging when you close your eyes. And with your eyes open, it’s difficult to ignore your neighbor, who not only seems to be barely sweating but also hardly wiggles. At least, from my perspective. How can you not feel envious? How can you not push beyond your limits?
Don’t forget to breathe: Challenges made easy.
In my yoga classes, I make a conscious effort to present a different perspective. A different mental approach. Yes, yoga involves challenge, at least for me. However, you are the only one who can determine the right level of challenge for your particular day, your specific practice. It’s not about executing yoga poses perfectly; it’s about what you can learn on your journey towards them.
The question is: at what point do you feel the effort intensifying? That is your place for today. Some may have to journey farther than others to find that spot, the right personal challenge. Looking at it this way, there’s no need for jealousy if your path is shorter 🙂
In case you’ve pushed yourself too hard, there’s always a clear sign: you’ll notice it when you can no longer breathe calmly. Back off. Or take a break. Then, seek out the beginning of the effort once more. In this pose. Or the next one.
The journey is the destination
Yoga is managed stress. It might not sound glamorous at first, but let’s face it, escaping stress in normal life is nearly impossible. Moving slightly beyond our comfort zone in the controlled environment of yoga benefits us in numerous ways. It feels empowering to be in control of yourself. You, and that inner couch potatoe that readily steers you away from self-imposed challenges. Way too often quite successful, as you know. (And so do I.)
There’s a deep satisfaction in mastering both your body and your mind. And over time, with regular practice, our comfort zone can expand gradually. A progress that continues even off the Yoga mat. You may find that you cope better with yourself and the challenges of daily life.
Interested in giving it a try? I offer yoga classes in Berlin Lichtenberg on Mondays and Wednesdays at 6:30 pm. Feel free to claim your trial class!
