{image by erikalmeida via Karen Yau on flickr}
I have discovered yoga.
I know, I know, I’m a bit behind the times.
And to be honest, I’ve tried yoga before – a few times since my early 20s.
But it wasn’t till I started this online course by Sadie Nardini that I have really awoken a passion.
{image from here via Nathalie Meurens on Pinterest}
Working from home – and being pretty sedentary in my work (hello computer and jewellery bench!) I have been trying for a while to get into a regular exercise routine.
I’ve run on and off since my early 20s, too, and while I do enjoy running, I’m always wary of the damage it might be doing to my body. I always seem to get sore ankles or knees if I run more than 1-2 times a week, and I really wanted to be doing more to strengthen my whole body.
The form of yoga taught in this course is Vinyasa, which is a dynamic, flowing sort of yoga. I’d always felt frustrated and bored in the past when I had to hold poses for a long period of time, so this really, really suits me!
Not only that, but this form of yoga means that you’re doing aerobic and strength training at the same time – win!
At first, I was totally hating on the Down Dog… but I’m – S.L.O.W.L.Y – finding it easier to do. Feeling a new strength in my body after only a few weeks of practice is kinda addictive.
If I feel this good now, how awesome will I feel after doing yoga daily for a year – 2 years – 10 years???
I think it really is time for me to get devoted to daily exercise. I may be only 30, but I’m starting to see subtle changes in my body – and I know if I don’t do something about it now, it will only get harder and harder as I get older.
I want to be a vibrant, fit, strong and healthy old lady one day, and there ain’t no way to get there other than being a vibrant, fit, strong and healthy young lady now!
Not to mention that keeping my body healthy can only benefit my mind, and hence my creativity.
{image found via Melissa on Pinterest – original source not known}
Do you have a regular yoga practice? How has it helped you – physically, but also mentally – how has it affected your sense of wellbeing?
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I really like this post – I keep trying yoga because I want to like it but I am not quite there yet. I have gone to a few yoga classes and tried a few videos at home, but it never feels quite right, and like you said, I get frustrated and bored. So this might be for me! Thanks for sharing, I am going to give it a try. Good luck with your practice ๐
I hope it helps, tweal! After being away from practice for a few days because of travelling, I’m really feeling the difference… it’s about 9am here at the moment, so I’m going to break out the yoga clothes shortly! ๐
I haven’t done any yoga since the birth of my daughter 10 months ago. My body, mind and soul misses it.
I was doing Iyengar yoga daily, especially during my pregnancy. I felt so balanced on every level. I also found that I could better cope with whatever life threw at me. I keep meaning to get back into it. Good on you for taking it up!
Well, I reckon having a baby is a good excuse! It’s so easy to get out of the habit… but I think once you’ve had a habit it’s easier to get back to. I hope you do, soon xx
Hurrah for yoga! I discovered Vinyasa yoga in Hong Kong about 2 years ago and haven’t looked back! It is the only exercise I’ve ever done that’s visibly changed my body shape (tone! muscles!), as well as helping with focus, a calm mind etc. Plus I love how yoga is all about small but noticeable progressions – there are poses I can do now that I never would have dreamt of doing 12 months ago (the wheel, for instance). It creates endless variety, which is helpful when you’re easily bored by exercise (like me!).
So much of enjoying yoga is finding the right teacher for you, and the right type of yoga as well – there are so many variations out there. My teacher in HK was perfect for me, the right mix of hard ass army sergeant and softly, softly encouragement. In Seoul I don’t attend classes but I still practice every other day – either doing an ‘Emily’ routine from my head, or following along with a DVD (I’m really digging Rodney Yee’s power yoga right now).
Hooray for finding something that makes you happy and healthy! Have fun with it
Oh, I’ve just come across Rodney Yee! I’m thinking I’ll try some of his stuff soon ๐
What a fabulous link thanks Jess. As a casual yoga attendee ive always enjoyed both the body and spiritual benefits. My mum however has been practicing yoga for over 40 years constantly. She is one of the least stressed people I know, who always sleeps 8 -9 of solid sleep each night and is very healthy (lots of knocking on wood here) The online programme looks great I will have to follow it up …
Hope your downward dog is a happening thing in the UK
Dan x
Haha, wow, your mum must be an inspiration! I have to say, I did a few minutes yesterday after waking up, because my body is SO sore after being stuck in a plane for 2 days. After I get off the computer in the next few minutes, I’m going to do a proper long session… ahhh.. ;D
I’ve been doing P90X, and for awhile I dreaded “yoga day”. This past week I’ve found that sweet spot where the Vinyasas feel great and I’m enjoying the flow of movement and breathing..instead of thinking “Now I’ve gotten into this position you want me to BREATH too?” It really is addictive if you stick to it ๐