Having engaged in yoga intermittently for several years, I’ve come to realize that while I may have been “practicing,” the term feels particularly fitting here. Despite my long history with yoga, I still grapple with fully grasping its essence. I genuinely enjoy the practice and the feelings it evokes, yet I often feel like I’m not particularly skilled at it. I fumble with my breathing, inhaling when I should be exhaling, and I find myself wanting to hold my breath—definitely not the aim of the practice. Most frustratingly, I struggle to stay present, allowing my thoughts to drift away instead of focusing on breathing deeply through my chakras. When the instructor encourages us to concentrate on our breath and leave external distractions behind, my mind is racing with thoughts like…
Was that my stomach growling? I’m feeling hungry. What’s waiting for me at home? Do I need to fill up my car with gas? How much money do I have for that? What time does the football game start? Who are we even playing? I’m the least devoted fan, yet I have a soft spot for college football. Should I go back to school? There’s so much laundry piling up. I can’t wait to move.
And as I take soft breaths… I really could use more yoga attire. I wonder if Goodwill has anything? Oh wait, Goodwill isn’t great. Maybe I should check out some consignment shops. Where did that one place relocate that used to be just down the road? Oh, there’s my stomach again. Ah, I have those baby carrots and yogurt dill dip waiting for me. Who am I kidding? Is this really what I want to eat? This yoga journey is opening my eyes to my dietary choices. Baby carrots with yogurt dip, and I still have Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. Perfect. Lunch and dinner sorted!
In this moment, I realize I need food that’s currently outside the studio. Why don’t I eat something before class? This happens every time. Great, I’m living up to the stereotype of the perpetually hungry person. Don’t judge me, slender folks! I’m just thinking about baby carrots. I really need to invest in my own yoga mat. It’s ridiculous to borrow one every time. They’re only $6 at Target; I should get on that.
And now, child’s pose… Oh, how I love this pose! Yes, stretch it out! I feel so flexible. I can really feel my spine elongating through my fingertips. Speaking of spines, I must remember to check out YouTube for the final moves in Mortal Kombat. I can’t recall which character rips the spine from their opponent, but that’s an epic move! The boys would totally appreciate that. Is that too violent? I grew up playing video games, and I’m not a serial killer—yet. If I don’t eat soon, who knows what might happen?
And we transition to proud warrior… Oh, absolutely, I’m a proud warrior. I’ve got this under control. I’m going to be sore tomorrow. This is just an intro to yoga? Thank goodness I didn’t opt for power yoga; that would probably be the end of me. I’m starving; what time is it? Oh, I have apples at home too.
Now we’re moving into tree pose. Really ground those feet like roots. My foot is a root. Look at me! I should wear my glasses in here to admire my own awesomeness. I AM a magnificent tree! I should really relax and breathe as we are instructed and focus on being present. But alas, I’m so hungry. This studio is beautiful; I adore that mural. I wonder if it carries a deeper meaning or if it’s merely decorative. I should ask someone about it.
Now we lie on our backs, mentally scanning our bodies to fully relax… THIS is the moment I live for. This pose—lying flat on my back, arms at my sides, palms up—doing nothing but breathing is something I’ve perfected.
And breathe… AND BREATHE.
Namaste.
Nailed it.
This article was originally published on March 23, 2015.
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In summary, yoga is a journey filled with distractions and revelations. While my mind often wanders, I find solace in the practice, gaining insights into my own habits and desires. The experience is a blend of physical challenge and mental exploration, reminding me to stay present and breathe deeply.
Keyphrase: Yoga thoughts during class
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