Yoga and the practice.
Getting back to Yoga has been an amazing and immensely refreshing practice for me. I did Yoga growing up and then there was a huge gap, but finally got back to it recently. The strength it brings out externally and internally centers me in ways I could not imagine.
I have had a flexible body and loved dancing, so this form of exercise was always a workout I enjoyed. Even for those who don’t the shift starts happening early on with the practice. Different people practice Yoga for different reasons — some as mindfulness, to heal; for physiological benefits or as plain exercise. But Yoga is transformational in much deeper ways. Now that I am getting more into it, I am noticing what it has been doing to me, and how I have inner reflections to remove any blockages/obstacles, to overcome negativity or things that have been bothering me. To be present and get close to my true self and preserve my originality. Maybe this is a period in my life that this mind frame is developing, but I am sure Yoga is enhancing it.
It gives me a sense of my deep desires/emotions and the flow in which all my actions and thoughts are fulfilling. When I stretch out and get into the flow, it acts as a reminder that unclutters my mind, and removes things that have no space in my mind and heart and are unnecessarily occupied by fear or anxiety. I can then focus on my true self and dreams and wishes. You know your self-worth, and you should not let it be degraded by external factors/people who are not mindful/kind/ethical. To practice Yoga is to be yourself, so all of the superficial influences/peace-stealers are eradicated. It all just goes away, one breath at a time, leaving oneself empowered. The muscles and the core start gaining the strength with this practice. The balance helps with control of the mind. So it really is a holistic approach and depends on how one is practicing it.
Stretching has been a habit of mine and part of my routine even between work hours. And Yoga takes it to the next level. I believe these practices definitely help being more mindful and patient and strong; and have better approach to life experiences and our goals or aspirations. It could be exercise or sports for some (or both!), whichever is a helpful medium. The refreshing experience leaves one feeling more positive, calm and energized.
