Giving Yourself the Gift of Yoga

Three years ago I decided to take charge of my life and do something for myself. I decided to take care of my own health and wellness. I was living inside my comfort zone; keeping myself safe, while keeping others out.  I knew I needed to break down the jail I had put up around myself. I discovered my outlet through yoga. Yoga has enhanced a better version of me: centered, focused, empowered, relaxed, stress-free, anxiety-free, accepted and feeling like part of a family. The biggest gift that yoga has given me is my voice. I am no longer afraid to talk with people anymore. Yoga has given me the confidence to stop playing it safe and live outside of my comfort zone.

Finding Balance

As a woman who runs her own business and is a part-time primary caregiver to two young nieces, I can totally relate to the working woman and stressed-out mom. It becomes a balancing act trying to maintain client relationships with ongoing professional demands, take care of the needs of my nieces as well as care for my ill mother. I often forget to make time to care for myself.

Yoga has become my sanctuary–my solace, my haven, my relief.  It is a place where I can leave all the stress and anxiety from my responsibilities at the door and become more focused, centered and recharged. After a class, I feel like a better version of myself. Yoga gives me the strength and mindfulness to dive back into the demands of my busy life.

Taking the Time

Often, we find ourselves overextended and maxed out. We know it is important to take the time to become healthy–both physically and mentally. However, attempting to do so can be overwhelming. But yoga helps clear my head and take care of my body. Truly, it is a one-stop shop for my mind, body and spirit. It gives me the boost I need to be a better business owner, “mom” to my nieces, and caregiver to my mother. Most of all, I do yoga for me so that I can feel balanced and happiness within myself.

Three tips for getting the most out of your yoga experience:

1. Be patient with yourself. Give yourself grace to make mistakes, to fall over, to giggle. It is okay to have fun. Keep showing up.
2. Drop your troubles at the door and be present on your own mat. When you focus on others you fall into a comparison trap. Focus on yourself and how your body is feeling, which allows you to measure your own growth against yourself instead of others.
3. Don’t be afraid to ask questions after class. Your yoga instructor wants you to have an amazing experience. If you have questions or need extra help, allow the session to finish and then take time after class to discuss your concerns.  

I challenge you to give yourself the gift of yoga too. Check out the yoga schedule at Immerse and plan it into your busy life. Does the thought of a class overwhelm you? Schedule a private yoga session with anyone from the yoga team. We would all love to help you experience the unique gifts that yoga has to offer you.

Tammy Snyder is a 200 hour Registered Yoga Teacher. Her goal is to bring awareness to the fact that anyone can do and benefit from yoga, no matter the age, shape, size, or disability. Due to her own personal body shape and size, she has an insight and compassion for those with similar physical attributes. The power of yoga and conscious breath is not only used on the mat but can also be used in everyday situations to help control stress and anxiety.