For 10 years I have practiced Bikram yoga. Started out strong because I had the time and I loved it more than any other thing I did to be in shape, plus I could see it's application to skiing. I have practiced the usual workout routines, (aerobics, low impact aerobics, step, machines, bike, roller blade, jog, and swim) but never loved them. I loved Bikram and I went just about daily for two years slowing in winter, due to skiing schedule, but at least 3 times a week in Dec-March. That's not my schedule now, I aim for four times a week, but three is usually what happens. Since Alex started treatment, I have large blocks of time away from yoga. (vacations) Today was my 3rd day back this week after about a 10day stretch off. I really had a struggle in class, the heat, the air, my sick feeling stomach, discomfort, worry, poor focus, all contributed to a nasty struggle. I surrendered to it and did my best. The class is an hour and one half long, It starts with a warm up, then a balancing series, a back strengthening series and floor series, there are two breathing exercises at beginning and end of class a bunch of sit-ups. We work rest work rest in various amounts of time, throughout. Sometimes, it is the quickest hour and a half of the day, sometimes, not so much. Today, was the latter, ouch. Oh well, that is the case sometimes, believe it or not, I have found that having a strong person near you helps you but, not today, a good frame of mind or mindlessness helpsnbut that did not, having the body feeling well and healthy helps but It did no help, wearing the most comfy, light clothing helps but it did not. I had a struggle for what seemed like longer than an eternity today. Super tough class today no doubt. At the end of class, lying quiet, mindless, beat, hot, wasted, soaking wet, longing for my shower, I realized that I was in a very happy mood. I was quite giddy and light hearted actually. Wow, what and why? My thoughts are as follows:
What I believe about my practice of yoga. I believe it has completely transformed me and is not done yet. I beleive that I am not the same person that walked into the studio many years ago. I am not just physically stronger and more flexible, I believe it has protected me from injury and accidents. My balance has improved immensely and I face the day with better concentration and mindfulness, and a clearity of thought. I believe that I have evolved into a better eater, tending toward the healthy choices, but still love chocolate. I believe that I am stronger, emotionally. How tough remains to be seen, as I continue my journey thru life. Yoga has saved me in those dark scary times. I am lighter in mood and content. Spiritually, I believe I have had a glimpse of my soul. I beleive that it triggers me a to be a compassionate, forgiving, tolerant, caring person. I beleive that I don't let the little things get to me as much. This is some of my understanding of my yoga practice, I hope will always have it in my life, as I need it to always be in my life.
So thank you (myself) for flying Bikram Airlines where there are no worries, no long lines to wait in, easy check-in, no extra charge for baggage, the staff are highly trained, friendly and here to help, and the peanuts are always free. Oh that's right, no peanuts. ...And best of all it, guarantees to get me from here to there in the most incredible way.
Namaste.
