We all want to feel loved, open, free and peaceful. We all desire to let go of the ideals and expectations of the "world" and be simply still. What if you had permission to be anything your heart wanted you to be? What if there was no right or wrong way of doing yoga poses, just simply YOUR way. The way that feels good for your body, mind and spirit. That is yoga to me.
There's a smorgasbord of yoga labels all around us. Each having its own fancy term or cool yoga gear. It's a bummer to see yoga magazines or videos with the same types of bodies representing yoga. This sends a message to the world that yoga is about looking a specific way. Instead of getting lost in the confusion, I chose to start really looking at my responsibility in this. Most of my clients share with me that they don't feel comfortable going to a yoga studio. One, they don't look like a yogi, two they might not do the poses "perfectly", and finally, they don't know where to even start. So many labels to choose from, so little time!
This is a very common experience with the people I teach or know. It is extremely challenging to go to a studio and relax when immediately you have to get your legs in lotus position. How uncomfortable is that? Yikes. Or you are so busy doing power yoga that you forgot to breathe or relax, feeling sore as you walk out the studio. Since I have experienced both being uncomfortable as a student and teacher I feel it is my duty to spread some of my truth around.
There is no label or box to fit yoga in. When I first began teaching yoga, I felt as if I had to "be" a certain way. Speak in a particular soft tone, and know all the right terminology. I've realized it's the total opposite. The more authentic I am, which means, giving myself permission to be Jenny, giggling, hugging, singing, sharing, being as transparent as possible, gives the student permission to choose to do the same.
Yes, poses are a part of yoga, and they do wonders for your body! But yoga is not about the poses or how long we can balance. The body listens when its given an opportunity to connect with your true self, and not edit what comes out.
Releasing the need to force your body into poses that hurt and allow yourself to explore what DOES feel good. To make your yoga practice, like life, all about you.
Instead of wishing for the world to change their box on what yoga should be, I decided to create and be the difference. Teach yoga from my heart, and allow it to guide each class. Whenever I share with my students that it's perfect to be exactly the way they are, my eyes well up. It feels good to share what I have yearned for in a yoga class.
If you feel uncomfortable going to a yoga studio, you are not alone. Listen to your heart, and listen to what your body is sharing with you. Start investigating and asking around for guidance on what form works for you. You are worth it. Give yourself permission to BE yourself no matter what. That is yoga.
About The Author
Jenny Ward is the owner of PLAYWARD. PLAYWARDS mission is to celebrate the magnificence of being alive. Jenny is a licensed coach, speaker, author and PLAY ACTIVIST!
Mercedes Benz s500 rentals Salem ..I suppose it was only a matter of time before... Read More
Every woman wants to have a healthy baby. Yogic practices,... Read More
The benefit of yoga practice goes far beyond the actual... Read More
EXERCISES FOR BACK RELIEFMany people believe that rest is best... Read More
The following is an excerpt from the book "Om Yoga:... Read More
Yoga mats are a basic part of every practice. What... Read More
Yoga is becoming a more and more popular activity in... Read More
To continue with our overview of the physical component of... Read More
As described in my earlier article... thoughts in the mind... Read More
There are many types of yoga, some with more emphasis... Read More
I am often asked by beginners about how to evaluate... Read More
Ayurveda and yoga are sister sciences that have been united... Read More
In order to find a quality yoga instructor, you need... Read More
The history of yoga is long and steeped in tradition.... Read More
It was not so long ago that eating disorders, such... Read More
Please bear in mind that I am not a dietician,... Read More
At one time, or another, all of us have experienced... Read More
After five thousand years of written documentation, Yoga may well... Read More
There is an interesting article in the September 5th issue... Read More
The Sanskrit word 'Yoga' has two meaning, because it is... Read More
Experienced Yoga practitioners often feel discouraged when a naturally gifted... Read More
Exercise is a powerful tool for ADD management. Medical professionals... Read More
Unlike some other sports, you don't need a lot of... Read More
Yoga for a beginner is an exciting time when you... Read More
What you are about to read applies to teaching, in... Read More
Dowagiac cheap limo service ..Stress is very common in all walks of life and... Read More
Yoga is controlling of thoughts arising in the mind. When... Read More
Many adults have taken up yoga, but yoga has not... Read More
Unlike some other sports, you don't need a lot of... Read More
Every woman wants to have a healthy baby. Yogic practices,... Read More
Yoga is becoming a more and more popular activity in... Read More
At this point, let's break down the major components of... Read More
You finally made the decision to practice yoga, but which... Read More
EXERCISES FOR BACK RELIEFMany people believe that rest is best... Read More
Senior Yoga / Chair YogaIs it possible that grandparents are... Read More
With dozens of Hollywood celebrities following in their Guru's lotus... Read More
Pilates can benefit your overall health and sense of well-being... Read More
To continue with our overview of the physical component of... Read More
Now, let's cover the last component of self-mastery, which is... Read More
Being a practicing Christian myself, there are very few things... Read More
Discover the true meaning of yoga?In taking any modern yoga... Read More
In most forms of Yoga there are three components to... Read More
The Sanskrit word 'Yoga' has two meaning, because it is... Read More
Some people may wonder if using a yoga prop can... Read More
Ayurveda and yoga are sister sciences that have been united... Read More
Most women experience PMS symptoms at different points of their... Read More
Many people feel that there is a limited amount of... Read More
Yoga is the most prestigious field of spiritualism. People think... Read More
Yoga is an ancient system of movement designed to generate... Read More
We all want to feel loved, open, free and peaceful.... Read More
Yoga |