Yoga Has Changed Me

Growing up as a competitive dancer has conditioned me into having some bad habits that have been a challenge to break. I was always told to "fake it until you make it" which has got me through some tough situations in my life, but as I have been growing up I am realizing how important it is to aknowledge everything for what it is. I have built up expectations and created standards that I believed to be good for myself, when in reality I am sabotaging myself. It wasn't until I started to regularly attend yoga classes from a local studio when I started to feel a switch in my day to day mentality.

A typical class starts off with a reading, the stories and messages allow for a short reflection before starting the vinyasa flow. I resonate most with the readings that revolve around slowing down due to my fast-paced lifestyle. I tend to have a busy schedule with plans for each day which leaves me without any time for myself. Yoga has emphasized the importance of the now, and being present in each moment. The feelings that arise in our lives are meant to be aknowledged and taken in, which can be difficult when there is so much happening on the outside. Before heading into our final shavasana meditation the instructor repeats "you have nowhere else to be and nothing else to do" which momentarily quiets down the brain and allows for total relaxation.

Adding this practice into my daily routine has given me a new outlook on life and has positively impacted the way I live. I used to sit in bed and scroll through social media as soon as I woke up, now I wake up and want to move my body and get the day going. I have felt more productive and have a natural energy which allows me to complete the tasks I have lined up for the day. Yoga has made me stronger physically, mentally, and emotionally.