Yoga is one of those things that you think you know about, but do you really?

The basis of modern yoga practices today is to breathe. Yoga, at least here in the U.S., is used as a fitness technique. Although our types of practices are different than its original purpose in Hinduism and Buddhism, it is still beautiful in its own way.

1. Health

The culture of yoga focuses on health and physical/mental well-being. Every time you go to a class, you leave thanking yourself for doing something good with your body. That one class propels you to continue to better yourself in all aspects of your life.

2. Try and then try again

I tried five different yoga classes at five different yoga studios in two states and I hated it. Every time I had gone to a yoga class it was because my friends had dragged me there. But then I signed up for yoga during my summer semester to get an extra credit. It wasn't until that sixth class that it finally connected with me. Yoga is so much more than weird hippies stretching. After only days of my summer yoga class, I felt that I had already had some of the hardest workouts of my life. It took a lot for me to try yoga, but now I'm hooked and I'm not looking back. If you are looking to live an intentional life, look into yoga. In order to begin practicing yoga, you have to put in the effort to continue your practice. Every time you walk into the studio, prove yourself to your mat every day, every time, every move. This also means if you don't like one instructor, try another one.

3. It will get easier

It was hard. But the hard things in life are worth it and you are worth it. Getting healthy and fit was a decision I had to make. It's still a decision I make every day. There are times I want to quit, but I remember that practicing yoga isn't only bettering my body but my mind as well.

4. Breathe

Yoga teaches you to breathe. You can do anything if you can breathe. Everything in life is a state of mind if you can breathe through it. I have done things I would have never imagined. I used to think that I was incapable of working out consistently, eating healthy, and having self-control, but yoga slowed down my fast-paced life and now I know I can do anything.

Even if it's not yoga, allow yourself to live a better life, try new things and most importantly love yourself and love others.

Namaste my friends