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In 2015 Google recognised Yoga with Adrienne as the most searched exercise. It was only in 2017 that I started to explore Yoga. Consequently, the first videos that popped up on YouTube were Adrienne's. Her welcoming demeanor and expansive library of content made the decision to start my journey an easy one.
Post-high school, grappling with the motivation to exercise became a recurring challenge for me. The structured environment of a school, where extracurricular activities were prearranged, provided a sense of effortless routine. Those were the good ol' days. But adulthood unveiled the harsh reality of motivating oneself and carving out time for exercise. Otherwise, I dare say, that most of us would easily and comfortably sit in front of the TV eating junk food all day. Let's discover the power of yoga.
1. You Can Do It
While running appears to be the go-to solution for exercise, I've harbored a deep-seated aversion to it. The prospect of entering that elusive state of runner's high has always eluded me, overshadowed by concerns about the logistical nightmare of managing my, ahem, ample chest.
As for the gym, the price tag felt like a barrier, but more daunting was the thought of sweating it out in the midst of seasoned gym buffs. The fear of fumbling with the machines and becoming the subject of unintentional comedy far outweighed any desire to sculpt my physique.
Of course, I had heard about yoga. Despite its ancient origins, it seems to be experiencing a modern renaissance. But could I, with my lack of flexibility and penchant for overthinking, truly embrace it? Would I merely be succumbing to a passing trend? Only one way to find out.
Initiating my yoga journey wasn't a walk in the park. The seemingly simple act of assuming a downward-facing dog position felt anything but restful as blood rushed to my head. Adrienne, with her serene demeanor, appeared to linger in these poses for an eternity, while I struggled to maintain my balance.
Yet, amidst the discomfort, her beginner-friendly videos served me well. Adrienne's mantra is all about being kind to your body, embracing its limitations, and finding what feels good. With her encouragement and modifications tailored to all body types, I gradually found my rhythm in the practice.
"Yoga offers up a way for us to see a world that is working for you instead of against you."
Adriene Mishler. Yoga with Adriene
If I can do it so can you. And the best part? It's free. With yoga, there's no room for excuses. Sure, it requires a bit of self-motivation, but there's an ineffable quality to yoga that transcends mere exercise.
2. Optimism
Yoga infused me with a newfound sense of optimism. Suddenly, the prospect of exercise didn't feel like a daunting chore. And the best part? I began to witness tangible results. As a woman, the struggle to shed pounds and sculpt muscles often feels like an uphill battle, but with yoga, I found a breakthrough. Surprisingly, the first signs of progress manifested in my arms, and the dreaded "bat wings" began to tone up. Result!
Unlike traditional forms of exercise, yoga doesn't come with the same mental hurdles. You don't need a special outfit or a designated gym space. Instead, you can practice yoga anywhere, wearing whatever makes you comfortable (although jeans might be pushing it). There's no buildup of anxiety or pressure; it's a serene and tranquil experience from the get-go.
"If you force the body, it's not yoga"
Of course, realistic expectations are crucial when embarking on any lifestyle change. Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a toned physique. But with yoga, you'll start noticing subtle shifts sooner than you think. It's about celebrating the small victories along the way, allowing them to fuel your journey towards greater well-being.
And let's not forget the mental benefits of yoga. It's not just about physical exercise; it's a holistic lifestyle approach.
3. Gumption
I love the word "gumption". Ever since it graced the screen in The Holiday. It's a word that encapsulates a multitude of admirable qualities: initiative, resourcefulness, courage, common sense, and shrewdness, to name a few.
Launching into a yoga practice requires gumption. It's recognizing the potential for a transformative lifestyle change, one that nurtures your mind, body, and soul. It might sound cliché, but summon the gumption to give it a try.
"I was told that the word yoga means harmony, skill, not only in action but also inwardly, to have great skill in all action..."
Krishnamurti in Saanen 1969, Talk 6.
And here's the beautiful part: yoga has a way of instilling gumption within you. You begin to believe in your own capabilities. There's a newfound courage in showing up to the mat and embracing the challenges it presents. Speaking of courage, let me share my favorite routine from Adriene.
Since embracing yoga and integrating small lifestyle changes, I've shed a notable 10 kilograms. Mentally and physically, I've never felt better. It's worth emphasizing that weight loss isn't the sole intention behind embarking on this journey. It's about holistic wellness—a journey toward self-discovery, self-care, and self-empowerment.
4. Affirm, Abide and Activate
State to yourself with empathy and confidence that you want this change, that you want to begin this journey. Affirm that you are capable and be kind to yourself.
Make the decision and abide by it. Accept it and act on it. We have to set intentions and just showing up to practice, even when you are feeling your worst is something to be proud of. When you can show up at your worst, you create a routine and daily practice, no matter how you are feeling.
Activate the lifestyle. Take everything you can from this journey. I have now been doing yoga for 3 years. Initially, it wasn't consecutive but now it is inherently in my life. I make time to activate this lifestyle every day.
I hope you have the motivation to begin this fulfilling and rewarding practice. For an extra dose of inspiration, check out my post about exercise. And in the immortal words of Shia LaBeouf, "Just do it!"
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