After day 100, my Yoga practice and approach took a turn towards doing Yoga for physical changes. Up went a photo of me, and where I didn’t see much change I got a few nice comments about a toned difference. Something triggered in my head and suddenly I was determined to have a super toned body ready for summer, even unrealistically hoping I would end up with a body like the gorgeous ladies who work so hard that you see on Instagram.
Instead of this new mindset making me more determined to put in longer and harder yoga practices daily, it did the opposite. Yoga became about achieving a goal, an achievement of looks, something superficial. It gave me a reason to pick out the negatives about my physical self. After a practice I wasn’t as satisfied, as of course, you can’t see the results you desire after each session.
It has taken me awhile to notice this change, 40 days in fact! The day I realized is the day Yoga became enjoyable again.
I started Yoga for:
- settling my mind
- finding calm
- happiness within
- ability to be in the now
- time out for me
- to feel good from the physical movement
All of these desires are achieved each and every Yoga session, as long as that is what you are there for. Now I am back to looking forward to rolling my mat out each day. It is a joy to do Yoga and feel great, I know I am benefiting in many ways, and the physical appearance is just a bonus that will (might) happen 🙂 And I am totally happy with that!
On an achievement update – woohoo I have done a handstand all of about 2 seconds, and wheel pose, which I will keep working on (that’s my top tucked in looking like weird clothing!) 🙂 🙂
I am also starting to approach Yoga teachers in the hope some would like to share a message about Yoga to people who are starting. I have prepared questions if they prefer and hope to get a few giving breakdowns and benefits of simple poses. The lovely Amber Jane from Yoga Vibes is our first who has a beautiful heartfelt message for us. Check it out on my home page, You Tube or Facebook page.
We would love you to join us over in our closed Facebook group – Our Yoga Tribe NZ. xo
