Does that grab your attention? We aren't just sitting in pretzel postures chanting OM.....No sir, we are bringing up that heart rate and sweating! Check this quote out:
"Yoga is a known stress buster, but it's also one of the most effective workouts for fighting stubborn fat stores. The reason: Studies show that is lowers levels of stress hormones and increases insulin sensitivity - a signal to your body to burn food as FUEL rather than store it as fat." - Prevention Magazine
But we aren't just burning physical fat and getting more muscular (have you ever checked out a guy that practices yoga regularly? Hot.) We are also peeling away layers of emotional junk, stress, and ideas of who we think we are to unveil who we REALLY are. That's deep.
Yep, those of you who know me know that I claim yoga is MAGICAL. It transforms EVERYTHING, and you don't know how it's happening, it just IS. The only way to experience this magic is by trying it and sticking with it for a set amount of time-say, two or three times a week for a month.
Still intimidated by the pretzels in the room? I have news for you. You don't have to be physically flexible to do yoga. You just need flexibility of mind, willingness, and curiosity. What is your body trying to tell you? When you create some quiet time and space to move, breathe, and listen to your body, it will speak to you!
We are so often listening to "the experts" to tell us what to eat, and how to be healthy, when the real expert on your body is YOU. Maybe you have lost the connection with yourself while going through the motions of your very busy life. But the body is forgiving. Give it a little and it will respond exponentially with valuable information and gratitude.
Find a class to try. Don't give up after the first couple of classes or teachers. Seek until you find a good match for your abilities and needs. Find a partner to practice with so you can be supported and hold each other accountable. Consider taking a couple of private lessons to learn the basics. If you are a regular yoga practitioner, try some private lessons to take your practice to the next level and challenge yourself.
Schedule too limited for a class right now? Use a dvd, or download one of the many podcasts available to take with you while you travel. (For a 35 minute guided mini-practice by yours truly, click HERE)
I could write a book about the many blessings that yoga brings, and I may, so stay tuned. But for now, won't you please consider exploring this transformational, ancient, and still relevant practice?
Namaste,
Kendra
