At first, I started yoga to have toned arms and a lifted butt. Today, it has become much more than that. Yoga isn’t meant to be paired with going to the gym. It is a practice. Despite the misconception, you don’t need to be flexible to do yoga; the desire alone is good enough. That’s what will fuel you to experience the benefits of yoga.

Here’s a short list of those benefits, and some tips before making yoga a part of your lifestyle:

1. You won’t (physically) feel as graceful as the girls look on Instagram.

Yoga is intense. Yogis don’t just stretch; they strengthen their muscles
and push them to their limits throughout each pose. Child’s pose and
downward dog, two common resting poses, exist for a reason.

2. Yoga is a mental and spiritual practice...not physical.

The practice is all about introspection. This is why many do not consider yoga as the typical workout. It exercises the mind, leading you to self-trust and acceptance. It’s not an easy journey, but the transformation taking place makes it worth it.

3. “Find what feels good” for you.

Depending on your location, you may have access to many public studios. If the first public class you went to wasn’t all that you expected, try a different instructor. Maybe you thought that class was the one, but it turns out there are better ones out there for you. Yoga is all about finding what feels good. This is Adriene Louise’s tagline on her Youtube channel: Yoga With Adriene. Who knows? Maybe public classes aren’t your thing and prefer a more private practice. If that’s the case, I recommend Adriene.

4. You’ll become obsessed.

At first, it might be the excuse to wear cute leggings or make SnapChat or Instagram posts. Once you reap the benefits of the practice, yoga will be an addition to your routine. Even if you have a busy schedule, you’ll make time for it because there is nothing better than unpacking your heart to yourself.

5. You’re gonna love yourself.

Whether you’re practicing in a public class or in the comfort of your home, you will experience yourself in a way you never have before. Transitioning into each pose, you will appreciate each muscle in your body that is keeping you stable, discovering just how powerful, in control, and beautiful you are and always were.

Namaste!