By choosing bikram yoga, I was facing one of my demons. My ego would hate it, but I am not my ego! So I choose to put my ego in check to my soul, and show who really is in charge.
So I had my first class. And I have to tell you it was dreadful. Not because of the yoga, but rather because of the heat. After my first 30 minutes (it's a 90 minute class), I had to remind myself that I was one third of the way done and that I could finish. Ten minutes later, I wanted to pass out. I could see the thermometer and it was fast approaching 111 degrees! What was I thinking! The instructor, who was absolutely motivating, wanted us to grab out legs and pull our knees to our chest. Easier said than done. Trying to maintain a grip on sweaty legs is not easy and then to have to pull them towards your chest when your big boobs get in the way is more than impossible. But I chugged along, doing the best I could despite my desire to explode from the heat building in my body.
But for a newbie, I did really well with the poses. Now, there were a few that I couldn't manage, like the one where you are standing on one leg, pulling the other leg by the ankle, poised like you are about to take flight, but very few in the class could manage them either. When the class was over, I felt great. And the next morning, I didn't ache at all! And I eagerly took my second class and managed it very well! And while I look forward to my next class with mixed feelings, dreading the sweat, but anticipating the benefits that I am doing for body, and most of all, conquering my demon hate of sweat. After all, it's mind over matter, and I choose to be programmed to win!
I recommend any form of yoga as a wonderful way to increase your health and well being.
2 comments:
I felt the same way as you did in my first Bikram experience. Now I absolutely love it. The sweaty legs and boobs still are a challenge for me some days. Thank you Mary! Edie
In this world there is always danger for those who are afraid of it.
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