Yoga Dreaming
One aspect of November’s month of self care includes the development of a yoga practice. Ha! I can barely get that sentence out without laughing. I’m not laughing at Yoga, but rather at the fact that I can’t touch my toes. Unless I’m sitting down. And my knees are bent.
However, I fully acknowledge the power of yoga. Ironically, I first sensed it’s potential influence in my life when I was sick. Prior to my pesky bout with FBC (f-bomb breast cancer), I ran marathons — and didn’t stretch after. In fact, after one marathon, I actually ran another 2 miles to get a cab so that I could make it to work on time. Yes, you read that correctly and yes, it was insane.
A Silver Lining to my inability to run during treatment was that I found restorative yoga (or perhaps it found me!). I did yoga during my treatment and then, when I started running again, didn’t look back at it. Whoopsie.
For some reason, as soon as I dedicated this month to self care, yoga called me back. And I am hearing the call and going toward it (not running away from it). So, I’ve decided that I’m going to do yoga 4 times a week this month. I know that sounds like a lot, but that feels like the right number for me….in part because I want to create a habit.
In fact, I’ve already been a couple of times this week and while I’m still completely ver klempt and still don’t know the difference between Warrior 1 and Warrior 2, every time I leave the studio, I feel a little Zen-ny. This, my friends, is a great and wonderful Silver Lining after the craziness that has been the past 6 months.
Here are my goals for this month-full of yoga:
- Increased flexibility (I have no where to go but up!)
- Toned muscles
- Enhanced immunity
- Better sleep
- Improved posture
- Core strength
- Stress & anxiety reduction (better than Ativan!)
Too ambitious? Hopefully not! We shall see and you know I’ll keep you posted.
Do you all do yoga? Any inspirational motivation that you want to send my way?
* Image by Mike Gigliotti from Kyle Miller’s new book: Yoga Dream.
I started yoga after a period of illness. I have never looked back for me its been the most revolutionary experience. So much so I now plan to train as a teacher. Once I'm a bit better at it. I have found kundalini yoga particularly healing. I also love hatha. I have never been able to touch my toes but now can- just. All the best I'm sure you'll find the right practise for you.
Oh how wonderful, Tabitha! Thanks so much and best wishes on your teacher training.
So glad for you Hollye!! I've been during yoga for years, before, during and after FBC. As Tabitha mentioned above, there are a lot of different kinds of yoga, so if one doesn't do it for you, try a different class. Keep up the good work!
Thanks so much, Anne! Will do. 🙂
Yes to yoga! Runners always have a challenge reaching their toes. Mine seem miles away, most days. Something about hamstring development. I discovered a wonderful app called Yoga Studio. It has everything one might need if you can't get to a class, especially if you're in the throws of chemo. An added plus is the pleasant voice and quality instruction. I also really like a book called Yoga Anatomy by Leslie Kaminoff, if you're interested in seeing what each posture requires of your body; beautifully illustrated, and filled with advice . Go girl, and thanks as always for encouraging us to heal in such positive ways. Get your Zen on!!!
Thanks for the great suggestions, Diane. Fantastic! Ommmm….
Woohoo!!! I have been practicing yoga for about 14 years now and some days I still can't touch my toes!!! Doesn't matter AT ALL….!!! Keep looking for the class and teacher that fits you….yoga is for everyone! It is about connection, it will come to you as your practice grows. Have fun!!
I know that you have, Patty. I still vividly remember you standing on your elbows…and have that image as my inspiration! 🙂
Hi there! I came across your blog from another blog, and I absolutely love it! I thought I would share with you this yoga site that I use every morning: http://www.doyogawithme.com. It is absolutely wonderful! All the best.
Awesome, Shefali. Thank you so much!
Hi Hollye,
I have also had an on again, off again yoga practice, and have often left it behind in order to commit to more running. I have found that when I do go back, I often say to myself several times, "Why don't I come here more often?" The biggest challenge, is when things are hectic (like they are now for me) to not only make it to class, but to allow my mind and my body to slow down. It's almost as though the physical act of running compliments the pace that is going on in my mind, so it sometimes seems like a more natural fit. I often remind myself that that is when I need to go back to yoga–when I feel like I can't or don't have the time or the patience for it.
Good luck with your practice this month! I hope you do create a habit out of it!
Marilyn
HI Marilyn,
Thanks for your note. Very well said. And oh so true. I'm hoping to create a habit this month – for sure!