My whole life I’ve been an athlete- and when I say athlete, I’m talking practice, weightlifting, and training every day for my sports. When I came to college, I was forced to quit my athletics and focus my attention on my future. It was a really hard transition and I struggled to motivate myself to go to the gym or go for runs every day. I was in a hard place emotionally and physically while trying to balance school, my social life, and my extra involvements. My roommate suggested we try yoga and I was reluctant at first, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.
My main concerns with yoga were that I didn’t know much about it and didn’t fully understand what it included. I also was nervous that I wouldn’t be able to get a sufficient workout from yoga alone. To my surprise, it was not only a demanding workout but, as cliché as it might sound, I’ve discovered that it’s a lifestyle. I’ve only been practicing yoga consistently for a month, but I can confidently say its changed my life for the better.
Physically, my body has gained strengths I didn’t even know I was capable of achieving. I built enormous amounts of core strength and my arms became noticeably muscular. Yoga really challenges you to utilize all your muscles in ways you wouldn’t normally while also maintaining balance. It builds your overall strength and keeps your muscles engaged throughout your practice. Along with the noticeable strength I have gained in just one month, yoga has encouraged me to accept the body I was given. The emphasis that is placed on learning how to utilize your body and accepting it as perfect in yoga is really influential. I have become more confident in my appearance and the way I am in just one month. Self-confidence was something I really struggled with when I first came to college, but yoga has helped me to repress those negative feelings about myself and my appearance. It has shown me the amazing things my body is capable of doing and achieving.
Mentally, yoga has improved my view on the world and how I go about the issues I face in my day-to-day life. Yoga provides a safe place to escape and really focus on yourself. It takes you away from the stresses of your day and gives you time to relax your mind. It puts you in a meditative environment, which can be really beneficial for your mental health. Yoga provides an outlet where you can express and get out the emotions you deal with through breath, movement, and mindset.
The past month has been really life-changing for my mental and physical health. Although it’s only been one month, the improvement it can make on someone’s life is really inspirational. Along with the personal benefits I am able to experience, I am also lucky enough to go through yoga practice with my roommate and see the positive influence it has on her as well. I know I will continue to practice yoga for as long as I can, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is willing to put in the effort to accept the lifestyle. I promise it’s worth it.
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