Before I came to Rishikesh Yog Peeth, I had never done a single yoga class. Now I intend to make yoga an essential part of my everyday life. In only two weeks, I have observed significant changes in my mind, body, and spirit, so much so that I only want to learn more. I know now why it is a lifestyle, not just an exercise. Here’s how I’m feeling.
Stronger
I thought the only real way to strengthen my muscles was by lifting weights in a gym. Boy! Was I wrong! I didn’t realize that the best way to build strength is simply using your body weight. There are so many yoga poses that, once held, build muscles. A good example is the tree pose. Stand with both feet together. Now lift one leg and press the flat of your foot into the other thigh. (Be careful not to press your foot against your knee). Now, lift your arms straight over your head so they are next to your ears. Engage your legs, arms, and core so they are tight and maintain your balance. Make sure you are standing straight. Tuck in your butt and take five long deep breaths. My legs started quivering on the second breath, but I know it’s because it’s improving my strength and balance. I see the tone in my muscles already.
More Flexible
On my first day of yoga, I could not touch my toes with my legs straight. That day, we did four hours of yoga, and by the end of the day, I could touch my toes! Sure, I hurt like hell, but that is how rapidly I’ve changed! One of our instructors always says, “Your pain today will be your strength tomorrow.” He is so right. I’m sure getting leaner has much to do with it, too. When I arrived here, I was a size 10, nearly a size 12. I bet today I am a size 8, only 2 weeks into the course. Of course, the healthy all-vegetarian diet at Rishikesh Yog Peeth has also probably helped.
More Energy
Today, I awoke at 4:45 without my alarm clock! I felt energized and ready for the day. Our two-hour asana sessions used to kick my ass to the point that I immediately needed a nap afterward because I was so tired. But now I’m just feeling good. Oh sure, there are days when our classes are more challenging than usual, and I feel tired again, but I generally have a lot more energy.
Calmer
When I arrived here, I was an emotionally stressed-out mess! I had just spent 14 months as an executive on a large software development project and was in the middle of ending a long-term relationship. I was a broken-down basketcase. For my first week here, I cried almost every day. Part of our yoga training involves the physiology and the psychology of yoga. Both have been a tremendous help in making me calmer and much more relaxed. I’m learning to stay in the moment, listen to myself, and meditate. I meditate for at least 15 minutes a day, and the change in my mood is noticeable.
More Focused
I’m sure another benefit of mediation has been learning to clear my mind of distractions and focus on only one thing at a time. Mediation is the uninterrupted flow of awareness toward the object of concentration. It’s a fantastic practice that is hard to explain. Yoga is the state of self-realization, of going from misunderstanding to understanding. It’s about living life to your fullest potential, physically, mentally, and spiritually. I’m a work in progress and an infant on this topic, but I’m excited to see so many changes in my life in only two weeks! I wonder how I’ll feel in two years.
You are so very welcome! Thank you for following. I really appreciate it!