In the end of 2013 I set a goal for myself to try something new. I chose to join a yoga studio. Now, I've practiced yoga before in the confines of a rec center setting, but I knew I wanted something more. I needed a place to challenge my physical and mental self and at the same time provide balance in my chaotic schedule. I found this and more at Hari Om Yoga Studios in Langley, B.C.
When I joined in late December I told myself this was not going to be just one of those New years Resolutions that many people make and break after a few short months. Weighing the cost of attending this studio and my time I knew I had to commit to a minimum of three sessions a week to make it worth while. I wanted to experiment and see if this form of exercise was all I needed, as I had become bored at the gym- treadmills were not cutting it anymore.
I took my magenta hued mat and my classic Lulu attire and attended my first class, and I was hooked. This gorgeous bamboo floored studio, with a large picture window over-looking a forest of trees invited me in, and the inclusive instructors and owners captured my heart. I find myself going four times a week, and if I didn't have to work I'd be there more.
So what's with the colour of the mat? Why is that important? Well I don't think the colour of your mat matters, and it won't reveal anything about your personality, but it is one thing I observe in every class. This is a good thing, as before I was more focused on how I measured up to the other yogis I practiced with instead of just focusing on my own practice. And as the months have gone by I have trained myself to be more curious about the Easter Egg basket of colours I see while twisting into poses rather than competing with the people to twist the furthest. I know now it isn't a competition and that everyone's body is different and we all have varying abilities. Yoga is a journey without a destination as once you have mastered a pose it doesn't mean you are done. You are never finished, since our bodies shift continuously our abilities to achieve more room to stretch and twist will vary. One day you might be able to get into Winged Dragon pose and the next maybe Baby Dragon is all your body is up for.
Another thing I have realized is that my body has become stronger and leaner over these months. I try to get in some cardio, from time to time, but I'm not obsessed with losing weight anymore. I am becoming comfortable in my skin and celebrating my body for what it is now and yoga has done that for me.
And doing something for just me is something I'm lucky enough to do four times a week. I'm fortunate to have the extra time to indulge in yoga in this particular way and that my husband is so supportive of me in doing this for just me. I know not many women take the time every week to do something just for them, but if you could what would it be? In a sense what colour is your mat, your thing you love to do alone, just for you?
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