The first time I went to a yoga class, I really didn’t feel comfortable.
Yoga…
The word conjured up images of tall slim athletic-looking young women in beautiful outfits, effortlessly and gracefully bending forward to touch their toes before flowing through a whole sequence of movements.
My complete exercise experience at that point consisted of years of trying to avoid PE lessons and of a few dance classes (during which I always went the wrong way!).
So when I walked into that room, full of women who obviously knew each other, I wasn’t comfortable.
The teacher was lovely and explained that it was all about following one’s own body and not forcing anything.
Good thing too as I could only wave at my toes and my whole body felt stiff.
And of course, I couldn’t help looking around and comparing myself (negatively obviously) to the other ladies in the room.
When it was time for the relaxation, I didn’t see the point. After all, I was there to exercise, to stretch, to do stuff… not to lie down for 20 min… What was the point!
I didn’t get yoga…
But, despite all of that, I felt good when the class ended. I walked out of that room as if I was walking on a cloud.
I felt light.
My mind was clear.
I felt more relaxed than I had been in months!
And so, I kept going back.
And little by little, I got closer to my toes and my body started to move in a more fluid way.
It took me a lot longer to stop comparing myself to others though (between you and me, I sometimes still do it…)
So, if you are scared of trying yoga.
I get it.
If you feel that you are not flexible enough.
Please don’t worry. I promise you’ll still enjoy it – and greatly benefit from it.
If you feel that the others in the room will be better than you.
Maybe they will, but you are doing your best with your body. Learning to move and accepting it in a whole new way and that is a journey in itself.
If you are on the fence and are a bit scared of trying yoga, please give it a shot:
- Look for a teacher who offers classes accessible to all levels and ages and have a chat with him/her to make sure you that feel comfortable
- Try a class
- If you can’t find classes that are suitable for you, try an online membership like my Happy Body Happy Mind membership that gives you access to accessible classes from the comfort – and privacy – of your own home and that you can cancel at any time
And see how you feel.