lightbulb moment: yoga

After finishing the LiveFit program by Jamie Eason from bodybuilding.com I was all hot on weight training, protein powder, and going hard. I even bought another program called the Body Earned Program by James Wilson - I know right Jamie....James...must be related in a past fitness life or something. But a couple weeks ago I was just feeling...burned out and wanted to try something more relaxing, more natural both physically and mentally. 

As you know, I'm not the best at sitting back and sippin on tea, watchin the sun go down BUT I'm working on it...

One thing I've found that helps is **lightbulb switches on** YOGA. I recently took two classes from the Yoga Sanctuary in Parnell. It's a beautiful little gem right off the main road. As soon as I entered the studio I was greeted with a fabulous aroma of incense. Candles were lite and light soft music was playing. 

Is this painting a nice little magical picture for you? Good.

They have a unique style at the yoga sanctuary - while it's important to them to have a deep and meaningful practice, the main focus is using yoga to be mindful and aware of ways you can help others.  

I took one class with Steve, and one with Denise, the owners of the studio. Steve's was a level two, and Denise's a level one. I left both with a very different feeling. Steve's I left energized, relaxed, and ready to conquer the day. In Denise's I left ultra relaxed, very zen, almost floating it was the most amazing feeling, I really felt connected to my inner guide after this class. I did take them at completely different times of day - Steve's being 9am on Saturday and Denise's 5:30 after work on a Tuesday but none the less I was greatful for each practice as it was just what I needed at the time.

[photo cred - Sophie Rose Amos instagram]

What I love about yoga is the meditation side that comes with it, it's literally the only thing I can do to disconnect me and just listen to my body without any distractions. Yoga is special in that you can be in a room with 50 people but each and every person is experiencing their own practice. Yoga teachers encourage you to listen to yourself and do what's best for you by listening to your body. This is just beginning of my yoga journey but I look forward to exploring more.

Y        - youthful
O  - openminded
G         - genuine
A      - accepting

"In order to love others you much first love yourself."

One of my favorite quotes mentioned at the Yoga Sanctuary