Yoga as Meditation

This week I decided to try out a yoga class at Stockton and compare my experience there to my past weeks taking classes at Yoga Nine. The atmosphere was the first major difference I noticed. I didn't see the pictures of yogis, the decorations, or smell the incense that I do at the studio in Ventnor. Being on campus, an area that is so familiar to me as a place I spend most of my time threw me off. My practice did not feel ritualistic. There also was not the same concept of breath. Although reminded to breath throughout the practice, I did not feel like I was among a community that was holding me accountable for that breath. The class was very smoothly instructed and I could tell the teacher was experienced, I just could not get in the same flow I find myself getting into at Yoga Nine.

Through all this differentiation I was feeling I did find one constant; meditation. Meditation in the class I took on campus was formally incorporated towards the end of class. We were guided through it and had the chance to reflect and let go. I experienced meditation at Yoga Nine as well just not as guided. In this studio along with breathing and proper alignment, I was constantly reminded to let go of any thoughts coming in and out of my head. I was free to let them in and encouraged to let them pass. This allows me to see the things that are present in my life and notice that they aren't permanent. Nothing in life is permanent so there is no reason to dwell on these small things. Instead I should turn the focus inward.

Just the practice of yoga is my time of turning inward. It is an hour where I can just focus on myself and forget about the stressors of the outside world. Every posture, every breath, and every transition I am aware of my abilities and my limitations. Being aware of myself allows me to accept myself for who I am. In this acceptance I am able to let go of the things I can not control. This method of meditation is so beneficial in my day to day jam-pack life.