How yoga changed my life and how it can change yours too

It’s that time of the year that we usually take to re-orient and evaluate where we want to our lives to go and reflect on why and how to get there.

Even more so in these uncertain and challenging times. Covid-19’s blessing is that it is forcing us to be more present, to cherish our loved ones and take nothing that we value for granted.

Back in 2012, my younger self was seeking ways to enhance my strength, both mental and physical. I had not done much research on yoga and there was also much of the stereotypical noise about yoga, not being able to touch your toes, guys doing yoga blah blah blah…..

I resolved to attend at least one class and see what it was all about. I was surrounded by people of all shapes, sizes, and ages. A sense of stillness pervaded the studio and the class attendees.

The class was an intermediate one, however considering myself quite strong and fit I figured I would breeze through it. I was so wrong! The class challenged me in ways I could not imagine and at the end of it I was profoundly grateful for the five minutes of rest at the end (known as Savasana). I was spent, yet I felt amazing. There was a sense of centredness and union of mind and body.

Join our 3-week online beginner yoga series, starting Sat 30th January 2021. Book your spot via www.yogaworks.co.za/events

That’s when I began my journey on the path of yoga. I was intrigued and curious, so I continued learning and exploring. As I started connecting with different people, practicing yoga in its different expressions, I at first did not realise that there were subtle yet powerful transformations occurring. Over time, the realisations would come in my corporate space as my colleagues began to notice a greater sense of calm, collectedness and resourcefulness in pressure situations. I was becoming more aware of my breath, my emotions, and my body in ways that I could not imagine.

This journey continues to give profound insights. It might take a while to share all so here are three key ones:

• Yoga, or any other mindful movement practice has the power to transform and uplift in ways that unite mind and body and develop a greater connection between the self and others.

• Nothing, including yoga, is a panacea or silver bullet to solve all challenges and address all issues. It is however a potent tool in the thrive toolbox.

• Yoga is not for everyone, however the only way you would know is to give it a go and see what it brings

Our online program has more than 100 yoga practices, including a 4 part beginner series. Get access to unlimited online classes for only R200/month on www.yogaworks.co.za/onlineyoga

In all things significant, begin with the basics, build a strong foundation and focus on the fundamentals. You cannot build anything of substance on weak foundation.

Are you curious? If so, a great way to start your practice is to join a beginner’s yoga series. The potential upside is that it could be amazingly transformative. The worst-case scenario is that you’ve given something new a go and learned that it wasn’t for you. Win, win.

I look forward to welcoming you to your yoga practice!