Yoga as a Lifestyle

Yesterday evening I attended the 5:30pm yoga flow class with Joyce at Yoga Nine once again. With all the commotion going on with election day and the tensions high everywhere I turned, I needed an hour escape. I had the class written in my planner and was looking forward to 5:30 rolling around all day. Once I got to the studio I realized I was not the only one who needed a break from the real world; Joyce and the other two people taking the class were mentally drained as well. The other two students were familiar faces who have been attending this particular class with me for the past couple of weeks. We always briefly what is going on in our lives prior to class starting and it is nice to take this break from all the stress and anxiety together.

During my practice I found myself truly living in the moment and focusing on myself rather than paying attention to my surroundings or letting my thoughts wonder. I am so used to constantly thinking ahead and planning the next step that I forget to acknowledge and appreciate the "now." Coming to yoga a couple of times a week has not only been an outlet for me but something I truly look forward to. I leave class feeling happier about myself, others, and my current place in life. This positive attitude shift then effects my actions. For me, yoga is not a lifestyle quite yet. I am still not as dedicated to be able to attend classes every day or truly consider myself a yogi. However, I do see myself getting to that point when I am ready.

It is so easy for me to understand how this practice of yoga is not just a practice but a lifestyle. It gives you energy to be up and living life, a positive outlook on situations and people, and an authentic sense of self. Incorporating this practice into everyday life is such a healthy life choice for both the body and mind.