I’ve been practicing yoga on and off for years, and while I recognize that “practiced” is the correct term, it feels particularly fitting here. Despite my time spent on the mat, I still haven’t quite grasped the true essence of yoga. I adore the practice and the way it makes me feel, but I often feel like I’m fumbling through it. I mix up my breathing—taking in air when I should be letting it out, and I sometimes hold my breath, which is the opposite of what I should be doing. Worst of all, I struggle to stay present, a key focus during our sessions. Instead of centering my energy and breathing through my chakras, my mind tends to wander off. When the instructor urges us to concentrate on our breath and leave our worries outside, here’s what plays out in my head:
Was that my stomach growling? I’m starving. What’s for dinner? Do I need to fill up my car with gas? How much do I have in my wallet? What time is that Alabama game? Who are we even playing against? I’m such a lousy fan, but I really do enjoy college football. Maybe I should head back to school. My laundry pile is insane. I can’t wait to move.
And as we breathe softly… I really need more yoga attire. I wonder if Goodwill has any? Oh, but Goodwill is hit or miss. I should check out the consignment shops instead. Where did that one place move that used to be down the street? And there goes my stomach again. I do have those baby carrots with dill dip at home. Seriously, this is what I crave? This yoga journey is opening my eyes to my eating habits. Baby carrots and yogurt dip, and I still have Ben and Jerry’s in the freezer. That’s lunch and dinner sorted. Boom.
Right now, I need food from beyond these studio walls. Why don’t I ever eat before class? This happens every time. Great, I’m the cliché hungry lady. Please don’t judge me, fit folks; I’m contemplating baby carrots here. And I really ought to invest in a yoga mat. It’s silly that I keep borrowing one. They’re only about $6 at Target. I need to make that happen.
And now we flow into child’s pose… Oh, how I adore this! Yes, stretching it out. I’m feeling more flexible than ever. I can feel my spine stretching through my fingertips. Speaking of spines, I need to look up those finishing moves for Mortal Kombat on YouTube. Which character pulls the spine out of their opponent again? That’s such an epic move. The boys would love it. Is that too gory? I grew up playing video games, and I’m not a serial killer—yet. If I don’t eat soon, who knows?
On to proud warrior… Oh, I’m totally nailing this! I’ve got this yoga thing in the bag. I’m going to feel sore tomorrow. This is just the intro to yoga? I’m relieved I didn’t choose power yoga; I think that would be my demise. What time is it? I have apples waiting for me at home too.
Now we transition into tree pose. Focus on grounding your feet like roots… My foot is a root. Look at me go! I should wear my glasses in here so I can admire my amazing form because I look awesome right now. I AM a magnificent tree. I should really just relax and breathe as instructed. Oh, the hunger pangs again. This studio is beautiful; I love that mural. I wonder if it has a deeper meaning or if it’s just for decoration. I should ask about that next time.
And now we lie back and mentally scan our bodies for total relaxation… THIS is what I’m talking about. This pose—flat on my back, hands at my sides, palms up, simply breathing—I’ve got this down pat at this stage in my life.
And breathe… AND BREATHE
Namaste
Nailed it.
In summary, while I may not be the most graceful or focused practitioner, yoga offers me a space to reflect on life, my cravings, and even my childhood memories of gaming. Each class is an opportunity for laughter and self-discovery, whether I’m contemplating baby carrots or the latest video game moves.