I am by no means a twig. My body has curves like a winding road. Stretch marks plague my milky skin life caverns tunneled through a pale earth. For most of my life, I have always been uncomfortable with my body. I viewed it as disgusting and flawed. One day, my friend Kaelyn invited me to yoga. Given she is the skinniest girl I know, I was hesitant but decided it might be a good idea to get to know her better. As we laughed and skipped to yoga class, my stomach was sinking. There were a thrashing river of questions running through my mind. Will I be able to bend? How will my body look while I'm in these positions? Do I make people uncomfortable? The instructor will probably laugh at me.

Coming to my mat now, I know it is not the case. As I stretch my back and begin in child's pose, I feel more strong and content with my body than I ever have before. At first, you will wobble and fall. However, with persistence, you will grow into a yogi in no time! My scars and rolling midsection become unimportant as I focus on my breathing and personal growth from the time I spend on my mat. As I twist and fold, I become a flowing river that is unstoppable. I am unyielding. My body acts as my support as I build myself up through the rotations of sweat inducing bends and stretches. My mat is my canvas and my body is my brush. With both at my disposal, I paint a beautiful mosaic of self love and happiness.

It is almost a transcending experience now. When the hustle and bustle of everyday life becomes too much, I can always come to mat and show myself how truly strong I am. So, for those of you who find yourself in a spot of discontent with yourself or your life; I recommend you go to your mat. Disconnect from the hurry of everyday life and just enjoy yourself. People really do overlook the importance of self worth and self discovery as we drown in college and work. Being thrown into the swirling torrent of life has to be balanced with your own positive vibes. Plus, it keeps your brain sharp! I have seen a vast maturation of my focus, poise, and patience after visiting my mat at the end of the day. There is never a bad time for self improvement!