Giving Yoga Another Go

I have always been equal parts fascinated and intimidated by yoga. I love the lithe moves, meditative properties, and the overall calming effect it can have on the participant’s life and wellbeing. After my own several attempts (albeit on probably the worst possible yoga level for an extreme beginner) the intimidation set in heavy, with the overwhelming sense of “not being flexible enough” (an outright myth), "not being in shape enough" (why did I think I was trying yoga in the first place…to help get me in shape!), and the perpetuating sentiment of “I’ll never be able to…” Well it’s time for me to break the yoga mat back out and approach if from a totally different mental standpoint. If you're with me, here are my current wonderful reasons for loving yoga and why we should definitely stick with it.

1.Yoga relaxes your body and mind, helping you alleviate and combat stress. I am incapable of traditional meditation: I just can’t turn my brain off. By mastering your breathing and even just a couple simple poses, you can utilize yoga to help calm yourself into a more “zen” state. This in turn helps keep your health and happiness more in balance.

2.Yoga helps you lose weight, tone your body, and increase your flexibility; all in one fell swoop. Now, as a beginner, you're not going to be able to participate 100% in some of the more advanced power yoga classes (which will make the pounds fly off), but working continuously and moving ever forward will help tighten, strengthen and rejuvenate your body: helping you gradually get down to your “healthy” body weight. (Remember: health and body weight don’t necessarily go hand in hand)

3.The more healthy and flexible yoga helps you become now, the better your the fitness level and mobility will be later in life. Often we're so here in the now that we don’t stop and think about 10, 20, or 50 years from now (unless we're frantic about finances). The truth though is this: the old saying is right, “if you don't use it, you lose it.” The more your move, and continue moving, the happier and healthier you'll be once you've reached your middle aged and senior years.

And it always helps to have a little daily inspiration. I follow @laurasykora on Instagram, and watch her journey as she pushes her own boundaries and meets new goals (even after 17 years of practicing). It also helps that she involves her family for many an “aww” inspiring photo! Here a couple of my favorites.