Over a year ago a friend of mine invited me to a yoga class. I wanted to go, but declined the invitation mostly due to the fact that I can't yoga. I can barely walk straight, let alone balance on one foot with my arms in the air. Also, this particular class was outside in a park. That means that not only do the people in the class get to giggle when I topple over, but all those in the vicinity also get to revel in my bound-to-happen misfortune.
Fast forward several months... I hop up to Georgia for a few days and on one of the shopping excursions I stumble upon discounted yoga mats. I'm not gonna lie, part of the draw was getting to choose between several different pretty colors. Secretly, I wish I could have chosen a glittery yoga mat. I selected a sky blue and made my purchase, vowing to go to a yoga class as soon as I got back in town.
Fast forward several more months... Before I could over think it, tonight I made the decision to try the class. I was the first one there and was almost worried that I had either missed it or it was in a different location. I continued to warm up on the elliptical machine (my favorite!) until I saw people going in.
After three or four women walked in, I timidly went in and picked a spot in the back. (I always select the back of the room because I like to look around and see what is happening around me.) I set up my mat and then awkwardly waited for class to start. It was like the first day of middle school when you are in a brand new school with no friends, only everyone else seems to already know each other.
When the instructor walked in she set up her mat and then walked around the room. When she walked by me I got her attention and whispered loudly, "this is my first yoga class... EVER!" As someone who doesn't always like to be the center of attention, I don't know why I did that. At any rate, I don't think she paid any extra attention to me during class. I just wanted to let her know I was a yoga virgin. Maybe so when she saw me doing the opposite of what she was saying, she would understand why.
The actual class itself wasn't too difficult. I realized immediately that I have almost no upper body strength. My arms were shaking with each downward dog! Also, I had no idea that the palms of my hands would hurt so much.
I think my favorite pose was the one at the end of class where I got to just lay on my back for about 5 minutes. I pretty much liked all the poses where i didn't have to stand and rely on my upper body. (Just kidding... I do enjoy a challenge! Guess I know what I need to work on!)
By far the hardest was when I had to hold myself up with one arm and turn over onto the side. (I have GOT to remember the names of the poses!) At least with that pose I immediately threw in the towel and used my knees for assistance. The only time I really almost lost it was during the warrior poses- the first time I nearly toppled over! The challenge was not only in controlling my body and having it do what I wanted, but also in controlling my laughter. I am fairly confident that if I had had a friend with me I would have lost it in a fit of giggles.
I am expecting to be quite sore tomorrow and I am looking forward to class next week on Tuesday.
Also, anyone have any post-yoga meal ideas? I'm pretty sure mashed potatoes, fake chicken nuggets, and chocolate ice cream isn't the best choice.
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