If there is anything I have learned in my life, it is the importance of now. There is nothing more powerful than recognizing your surroundings, accepting what is happening in the present moment, and learning to deal with what you cannot change. Appreciating your breath and learning to move with it is something that will not only make you feel better and stronger, but will also help you to feel more free.
My family has always loved working out, and it has always been a part of me. Whether we were all going to boot camp, a spin class, or kicking it in Zumba, we were always active. A few years ago my family had started going to yoga, which at the time I never thought was for me. Being a Zumba instructor myself, I felt that yoga was too slow, and too boring, and quite honestly felt funny doing what they do.
It took one class for me to feel stronger and more empowered. I knew it was something that would take time for me to enjoy going to like any other work out class, but now I could not imagine it not being in my life.
With yoga, I have not only gained flexibility, strength in my muscles, and worked on toning, I have felt a difference in my body in every day performance. Although I leave drenched in sweat some days, I can feel the toxins seeping out of my body. Not only does yoga bring these benefits, it also helps maintain a healthy metabolism. Ever have a serious injury that has kept you from doing the things you once loved to do? Find the pose through yoga that helps stretch that muscle or the ones around the bones that are bothering you. If you have never suffered from an injury, use yoga to help gain strength and minimize your chances of being injured and to help with athletic performance.
Yoga is something that you do not just go to for an hour and that is it. It is something that becomes a part of your every day life. You will recognize your breath more, feel better just in the way you walk and go about your day, and will focus more on the now. Instead of fighting yourself to get on the elliptical for an hour, grab a mat, find your local yoga studio, and let the practice change you like it has changed me. I promise you will not regret it!
Namaste!
