…Even if it’s not your thing. Because yoga is totally not my thing. Just ask my yoga-enthusiast mother. In my one experience of attending a class with her, I repeatedly fell on my butt, stomach and face for an hour while she hit each pose with the utmost grace (even balancing on her head…like, what, Mom!?). I left at the end of the class disheartened, hoping to never have to set foot (or any other part of my bruised body) on a yoga mat ever again.
With that being said, imagine my surprise a few weeks ago when my Religious Quest professor asked us to attend a yoga class of our choosing and write about it for our studies on Hinduism. Some of the girls in my class looked pleased. Pretty much all the boys looked confused. And others, like me, wore looks of complete horror. Somehow, I did not think the Hindu gods would smile down upon me as I totally screwed up their sacred practice.
After several days of hitting snooze instead of hitting the Plex for a morning yoga class, I finally mustered up the confidence to borrow my roommate’s mat and go…and it was actually pretty fun. As a matter of fact, it probably won’t be my last yoga class, either! So, I encourage all of you to attend a yoga class (even if you feel and look ridiculous, like me), and here’s why:
1) Between all the poses, it’s actually pretty relaxing.
It’s not all contortionism! It was kind of nice to hold each pose and just focus on my breathing, especially after a long day of classes and meetings. However, if it is relaxation you are looking for, I would not suggest attending any yoga classes that contain the word “vigorous” in the title or description…or you may be in for an unpleasant surprise.
2) It’s good exercise.
Especially if you go to a Yoga Fit or Power Yoga class! And, since I was already at the Plex anyway, I figured I might as well take advantage and run on the treadmill, too! Besides, getting yourself motivated enough to actually go to the gym is half the battle, right?
3) It’s scientifically proven to benefit your mental health.
Studies have actually shown that one of the biggest benefits from yoga is a general sense of well-being. Yoga specifically helps people who struggle with depression or sleeping disorders. Having a rough day? This can boost your mood! After my class I felt completely refreshed.
4) It gives you time to clear your mind.
Every day is a busy day for college students. I’m sure I don’t only speak for myself when I say that I constantly have a million thoughts going through my head. Yoga gave me the chance to not only get some exercise, but while I was focusing on my breathing I was able to also just let everything else go, even if it was just for the hour!
PS: You don’t have to face those yoga biddies alone!! You know, the ones who never miss a class and are so flexible it’s actually a little bit gross. Going to classes at the Plex together is also a great way to bond with your roommates and friends! So, help those yoga pants live up to their namesake and try it out!
Photo Source:
http://www.thefitpress.com/2013/01/09/guest-post-the-joy-of-yoga/meditation_10/