In one word, my year could be described as overwhelming. From moving over 400 miles away to a new state, adjusting to college and trying to make a home of my new surroundings, this year has been nothing short of intense. Breakups, family crises, and coping with mental illness have made the past seven months unbearably taxing. Searching for an escape, I discovered yoga. Yoga became a medium through which I could destress and rid my anxious mind of all worries. Yoga has been a saving grace to me, detoxifying my body, mind, and spirit.
Throughout my practice, I have come to realize several truths. The first of these being that it’s OK to fall down; get back up again. Every day, life hands me new challenges. Getting a bad grade on a test, being sick for weeks on end, or having an argument with a friend can be draining and cause me to “fall” out of balance. The same sensation is true during my yoga practice; when I try new poses, such as the crow or Warrior III, I often lose my balance. I had to learn pretty quickly that this is normal both on and off the mat. The important thing is that I got back up and tried again.
Sometimes, the idea of having so much to do in so little time overwhelms me. During my chaotic schedule, I feel as through I am being tugged in all different directions. It’s difficult to prioritize my obligations and maintain a healthy balance in my life. I’ve learned that everything becomes easier if I just breathe and go with the flow. The times that I’ve taken a step back and put the situation in perspective have some of my most graceful. Knowing what I need and being selfish enough to give myself just that is so crucial to my well-being. Making peace with life’s ups and downs and never taking anything too seriously help me to maintain my “flow.”
Through the challenges of the past year, I have discovered a newfound internal strength. I can now face obstacles with confidence and have an optimistic outlook on life. I realize that through allowing myself to feel everything I need to feel and say exactly what I need to say, I show my strength. Yoga taught me that strength comes in many forms. I may not bench-press 200 pounds or run marathons at will, but when I’m on the mat, I can honestly say that I feel beautiful, confident, and strong. By attempting new poses and always striving to improve my flexibility and balance, I grow stronger every day. In the same way, I try to apply the meditative state of mind I've learned from yoga to my everyday life. This patient, calm way of thought helps me to stay strong in stressful situations and be peaceful with everyone I interact with. Yoga has given me the opportunity to overcome new physical challenges and grow stronger, both physically and spiritually.
One of my yoga instructors always says how important it is to honor your body. This simple concept is grossly overlooked by so many people. In life and in yoga, confidence is key. You have to trust your gut, and trust your body, when making decisions. What does my body need today? Are my dietary choices nourishing to my body? When I look at myself in the mirror, am I kind to myself in my thoughts? Honoring your body means to listen to it and respect it. My body is my temple, and I must treat it accordingly. Yoga has helped me to appreciate my body for the beautiful vessel it is, flaws and all.
When the waves of life become choppy and threaten to pull me into their undertow, I know that with a few deep breaths I can return to a peaceful place where the waters are calm. Yoga has given me an escape, as well as taught me valuable lessons that I use as mantras in my everyday life. Yoga makes an indestructible yet gentle warrior of its practitioner. Of this image, I am the living proof.
