I have always preached about the benefits of meditation and yoga to my clients, yet when it came to myself, I often felt that it was “too boring” or “too slow” or “I just don’t have enough time.” Until recently, I had only taken a few classes here and there, but never really connected with the practice. However, after my most recent running injury sidelined me for a couple months, I realized that I needed to really start taking better care of myself if I wanted to continue running into my later years. I have long known about the benefits of yoga for runners, so I decided to give it another try and to go into the studio with an open mind. What I discovered was that it may be helping to improve my strength and flexibility but the emotional benefits are by far the greatest transformation. If you walk into any yoga studio, you will see a very diverse group of people. This is something that struck me immediately, as there were people from all ages, genders, ethnicities, and skill levels. This was reassuring to me, as a new “yogi” because it felt like a non-judgmental environment that was not going to be focused on my lack of skill or poor balance! I know that many people stay away from the gym and other fitness classes out of fear of “not fitting in” so I think that the welcoming culture contributed to the experience.
So what is Yoga? Yoga is a mind and body practice with historical origins. There are various styles of yoga but they all combine physical postures, breathing techniques, meditation, and relaxation. As a mental health practitioner, one of my goals is to help people learn to quiet their minds to achieve calmness and create a sense of well-being. Incorporating a regular Yoga and meditation practice, in conjunction with psychotherapy is emotionally and mentally beneficial. Yoga moves us from the sympathetic nervous system to the parasympathetic nervous system, (or from flight or fight to rest and digest.) You will have less anxiety and feel more relaxed. As soon as you start to slow your breathing, you slow down your nervous system. Yoga also improves your sense of self. When you quiet the mind, you start to get to know yourself on a different level and are forced to confront aspects or as Carl Jung put it, “the shadow” qualities that we keep hidden. These are the parts of ourselves that we try to hide and deny, the dark aspects that we believe are unacceptable to our family, friends, and more importantly, ourselves. When you turn inward, and really get to know yourself, you will start to notice that you are building self-trust, self-compassion and more courage because you will no longer be trying to hide or prove yourself any longer. You’re relationship with yourself will improve and you will be more confident and centered. It also helps to improve your relationships with friends and family. When you are more centered and peaceful, you are the same way with your friends, family, co-workers, and significant others. Through the practice of self- love and compassion you will see those in your life through the same lens and be less reactive.