28 Dec Incorporating Yoga Into My Daily Life + The Yoga Expo Los Angeles
In October if this year, Chris and I decided to drop all of our excuses, and commit to integrating a yoga practice into our daily lives. We decided to go for an unlimited pass at our local yoga studio, to motivate ourselves to consistently attend, in hopes that we would not only allow for an invigorating workout, but also a chance for us to step away from our daily lives and bring calm and stillness to our minds.
Yoga to me used to just be yet another workout class I would attend to get my heart rate up and break a sweat, when I did not feel up to the intense weight lifting courses I would take at the gym. Nowadays, however, as cliche that it may sound to some, yoga to me has been at outlet of relaxation, realization of inner joy, a personal connection with my mind, body, and spirit, and a new outlet and level of connection with my boyfriend Chris.
Although I have been attending yoga courses for a few years now, I have not, until now, ever followed a consistent schedule, or integrated it into my daily life as I have done so now. For the first time in my life, I was able to actually silence my mind from all thoughts outside of the studio, a focus on the present moment, the inner strength I hold in my body and mind, and all all-peaceful state of meditation.
The biggest challenge for me is to step away from my mind, and to consistently listen to the voices in my head telling me that I can’t tackle the new poses or challenges my instructors present to me in my yoga classes. Crow pose, for example, has been one of the main barriers to progression for me. I am, for one thing, too shy to ask my teachers for help, and another is that I honestly am in fear of failure, in front of my classmates and Chris. I have been trying to step outside of my comfort zone, and really truly believe that I can do it when I really try, but as for now, it remains a challenge.
I should include that yoga does not have to be something you practice at a fancy, sometimes impractical, studio with large group and professional teacher. Yoga is a practice that is intended to help you draw a closer relationship within yourself, and is only what you yourself make of it. If you seek a more affordable alternative, there are courses you can view for free online, on youtube, and even on sites like thrivingplantbased.com. No matter what way you use to be able to fulfill your want for a family yoga practice, just work it, put in all that you’ve got and love every second of it, although I would say that is inherent with the practice.
Do any of you practice daily or consistent yoga? If so, what are your strengths and weaknesses, and what would you suggest to someone trying to push themselves to reach the next level?
Chris and I will be attending the Yoga Expo at the Los Angeles Convention Center this month. It is an all-day yoga event that showcases local & national teachers, as well as studios and their unique styles of mind & body practice. We hope to connect with new local teachers, and even get a taste of local and sustainable {vegan} food & beverages.
The even offers 150+ different classes & workshops, as well as guided meditation, a full lineup of aerobic, anaerobic, and resistance training programs, + an extensive variety of food, including organic, non-GMO, & gluten-free options.
This will be the first year I am attending the expo, so please come join in on the fun and say hello if we cross paths! You can get your tickets here.
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