In college, I used to go to Hot Yoga and I was pretty impressed with my bad ass self, getting sweaty and executing good form and stamina in the sweltering heat. I may have even gloated (just in my head, to myself) about how I was able to get in and hold the positions with more ease than my fellow students.
Pride. So much pride.
Fast forward to 2014. Several years in to panic and anxiety. Unhappiness and confusion. Really, just being lost. Not knowing who I am. And not knowing how to love who I am. It's not just a mental battle but it definitely takes a toll physically. So much so, that the 30 minute relaxation session on my Yoga Studio app is a challenge. But despite the physical challenge, despite the inner battle about sticking with the entire 30 minutes or getting up to go make myself comfortable some other way (sugar, anyone?) - I am always so much more calm and at peace after those 30 minutes. Blissed out. Probably the most confident and mentally calm point of my day.
During one of my late night internet browsing sessions, I came across this info graphic (and then also this article) about the immediate and long term benefits of practicing yoga and I got all pumped up about seeing some of those benefits manifest in my own life with consistent practice. In turn, I'm challenging myself to 30 days of 30 minutes or more of yoga per day. I'm not doing this with the aim of toning my body or losing weight. My desire is to see whether or not this can really give me the mental and emotional relief I am seeking from the anxiety and depression that are constantly hovering. And sharing with you, of course, gives me a greater feeling of accountability.
If you're skeptical about yoga - or if like me, you're living on a med student's salary - but want to give it a try, check out the Yoga Studio app. It's just a few dollars but has several classes ranging from 10 to 60 minutes aimed at beginner to advanced yogis. I think you will be impressed.
For those consistently practicing yoga, how have you seen it transform you life? I'd love to hear how it's positively impacted you - for me, fuel for the fire and motivation are a big part of sticking with anything.
Photo taken on my last day in the Dominican Republic this past July.
Photo taken on my last day in the Dominican Republic this past July.