It's your first yoga class
and like many of us who remember our first one, you may be unsure what to do or
what you are getting into. Most likely you decided to try yoga for the physical
aspects, which is why I did. I did not like going to the gym and knew I wanted
to start something that would help me stay fit as my 30s loomed. I heard yoga
could increase flexibility, build strength and tone abs. My first class I
didn’t have a mat, so I borrowed one, not knowing if I would stick with it. I
went with a friend and we found a spot and waited for the instructor to start.
That was over 8 years ago and now I’m the one in front of first-time students
explaining different poses and reminding them to breath. For me, I found much
more than a physical practice, I found a way life, a way of being and a full
community of support. Everyone’s yoga experience will be different, however I
can say that everyone can experience yoga.
As yoga became a part of my
every-day life, I started feeling better in my body. I knew this was a practice
that I could continue throughout my life and grow in many ways. Yoga is a
practice and as I learned to listen to my body, things started to shift. One of
my yoga teachers says to change your physical body, get on your mat 2-3 times a
week, to transform your life get on your mat 5-6.
The physical part of yoga is
what helped me shift into the present moment. Through breathe and movement I
was able to focus my mind and bring clarity to my life. I went through a year
of depression and anxiety, not knowing what I was doing or how to be happy.
When I chose to make a change and bring yoga to the forefront, I found a whole
new way of being. At first, I thought teaching yoga would be something I would
do on the side. I loved teaching my coworkers and they supported me throughout
my training. Then things shifted again and I knew I wanted to take my yoga
practice to the next level and share it with anyone willing. I met an amazing
teacher who’s light and love transformed
my practice into one where anything is possible. It’s all about timing and when
you’re open and ready the teacher will appear.