A couple weeks ago I started attending yoga classes at a studio in the area. This is something that I’ve wanted to do for a long time but kept putting it off for one reason or another. It’s funny how fear works. Trying anything new gives me a sense of incompetency that can render me immobile. One day I finally bit the bullet and drove my nervous butt to the class. It’s in a large complex with many signs saying it is there, but I couldn’t find it anywhere. I almost turned around and went home (any excuse to avoid being uncomfortable). Just as I was about to give up, the veil of fear was lifted from my eyes and mysteriously the door I had passed numerous times became very visible. Crap, now I had to go in.

It is a small space and easy to maneuver around. I hung up my coat, checked in, found the mats and blankets, and was ready to learn yoga. Once settled, I began to ease into the welcoming atmosphere and quietly congratulated myself for making it there. Then I prayed… “God, please don’t let me fall over. Amen.”

After a few classes now, I understand yoga is WAY more than an exercise. It is a practice with lessons I can apply to just about every aspect of my life. My first lesson is that no one there cares if I fall over anyway (which hasn’t happened yet, to my surprise). In fact, no one ever looks at me. There is no “right” way to practice yoga. Sure, the instructor will come around and lovingly correct my posture to help challenge and maximize my results. But, the number of variations I can use to do what’s comfortable for me are limitless. Wow, how freeing! (Life lesson no. 1: Joneses… you got nothin’ on me.)

The postures and stretches are extremely challenging, but fighting the pain and discomfort is pointless. Once I give in and breathe into the burn of my muscles I can feel some progress. This reminded me of the struggle I had with myself to get there in the first place. Once I gave into my uncertainty, gave myself permission to feel that way, I obtained the confidence to move through it.

Yay for Yoga! What’s even cooler about practicing yoga is that it’s perfect for apartment living. You can do it in a small space and it’s quiet, so you won’t bother your neighbors.

What techniques do you use that help you get through fears and anxiety?

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4. Wii Fit Inspiration
5. Rest and Recover

Tags: Exercise, Health, Pain, Postures, small spaces, stretching, Yoga