I’ve been pretty achy lately, having succumbed to a plethora of desk work in the past several weeks and neglecting to move as much as I should. I know that a good antidote for aches and pains is stretching regularly, and I was delighted to hear recently that Rome Art and Community Center was offering yoga classes again. I signed up right away.
Having not taken a yoga class in a dog’s year, I was a teensy bit anxious about whether or not I could cut the muster, even in the beginner class. I had been in so-called “beginner” classes before that felt more like hazing than healing. But Amy Taylor, the instructor for RACC’s class, had been recommended by a friend, and I eagerly looked forward to the Monday night class as it began to approach.
There is always some trepidation on my part when walking into a room where I’m not sure I know anyone. I was the second student to arrive, but I started chatting with the other student waiting for the class to begin. I immediately felt more comfortable; I had forgotten how warm and welcoming most yogis are.
I know Amy was going very easy on our mixed class, and I appreciated it. I have had past knee and hip trouble, and her constant encouragement not to overextend ourselves was helpful. I was grateful when she reminded us that, at the end of this session of classes, we would be able to accomplish much more than we could at present. I left feeling relaxed, but at the same time energized, knowing that I had done something good for myself.
The principles of yoga are, and are really intended to be, the principles of life itself. Both involve a combination of body and mind to accomplish a goal. My own personal virtues of honesty, generosity and integrity can also be found there. I was also reminded through our gentle progressions not to push myself too hard before I am ready, but at the same time to strive for an achievable goal of which I may not have thought I was capable.
It is a subtle distinction; with care and intentional action, we can all grow gradually and authentically into the people that we have always wanted to be. Whether you are a yogi or not, the concept still applies. Even if you never step into a yoga class, intentional, focused achievement is something that all of us can realize. Until next week, Namaste!
