Monday, December 7, 2009

Mindful Transition

Yoga is different. It is not like baseball practice. It is far from a bike ride down a busy street. the peaceful practice is definitely not like a pick up hockey game. But Yoga can be highly beneficial to people who enjoy these sports. Yoga provides mind and body work that compliments sports. Yoga provides a foundation for life in general. Yoga is something that becomes familiar as you re-introduce yourself to your body.

Open yourself to a new frontier and new ideas. Yoga studios have their own culture and style. Postures are taught differently and not all postures are designed to suit everyone. There are a lot of different ideas and activities happening during a practice. It is important to just take in what you can and not overwhelm yourself. Instructors are constantly encouraging each student to be present. Being present can be as simple as breathing. Just focus on yourself. Being present involves the breath and avoiding the mental fluctuations. Pay attention to your alignment, too. Sometimes the instructions can be overwhelming. Listening to the sequencing and alignment corrections can be a lot to handle. As a student always be satisfied with whatever you can do. As a beginner try not to look for a purpose. Just watch your body move and transition through the practice. Be patient. The Yoga realm will slowly unveil itself and your body will start to crave the practice. Yoga keeps you grounded.