My first recollections of yoga were pleasant as it was a family event. It was a time to get closer to my family, especially my mother. My mother loved to do all things such as yoga, zumba, pickleball, etc. She is an inspiration in my family.
My first impression of yoga was that it provided clarity and calmness and a space to relax. It was not high energy but simply slower than other sport activities. I quite like the slower pace of yoga because it takes me from my thoughts but it made me feel a sense of calmness and control. Taking control of my life is important to me and it is what keeps my mental health in a better state.
Some key points from my first couple of experiences of yoga at a fitness club such as La Fitness:
One skill or benefit that happened to me was that stretching did help my flexibility. It improved my breathing and ability to move. Something that is not usually mentioned is learning balance. My balance skills improved.
Kine 199 is an exercise class with many different options.
I chose yoga and so far the instructor details how to do each position for certain poses in depth and how to get the best stretch and purpose out of them. The equipment is provided and it is a good quality mat, blocks, and blankets/pillows. Each equipment piece can provide a better stretch or workout or create comfort if you have a weaker back. It is encouraged to use the equipment to aid you during the session.
After each session, we say namaste which the instructor said means “the light in me sees the light in you” and it is a nice closer to each session. It creates unity and peace. For me, it does encourage me to see the reality of life. Some days I may not get a good grade on an assignment or assessment but the yoga class forces me to refocus and analyze myself. I can move on to be better and look at life in perspective. Mistakes can happen and the bigger picture is to never give up and keep on trying.
One of the methods that I was taught to help me with this was doing the sun salutation. The repetitive motions are not ideal for me because I feel like doing something once or twice is useful but three or four times is monotonous. Everyone can do yoga their own way. A repetition of motions is a little too similar to something religious which personally I usually don’t partake in so I had to practice while acknowledging this.
Everyone should try yoga once and, in my opinion, everyone will likely stop and get clarity in their lives.