A Month of BLYS
Inspired by a friend (who I will introduce to you soon), I have committed to a month of daily yoga at BLYS in Falmouth, MA. There are several reasons why I am doing this.
Yoga quiets my mind. My 2010 mantras are focus and release, and yoga allows for both. Basically, I cannot stay in a pose while over thinking things or holding on to grudges without toppling over.
In yoga class, I am reminded to set an intention (see mantras above) and focus on the ever present “now”. Just writing about this is having a calming effect…
I am interested in improving my overall health, and most of the yogis I know are consistent when it comes to taking care of themselves. I want more mind-body balance. And I want to look good in yoga pants.
Yoga is expensive, but worth it. If you are interested but can’t afford to go regularly, I suggest you take at least a couple of classes before going the video route. Some poses are challenging (understatement) and having an instructor there to guide you will make all the difference.
Paul was kind enough to buy me a one month pass. So, I thought why not go every day while I can? Yes, I am mighty sore on my fifth day straight and no, I do not recommend this to anyone who has not practiced yoga before.
So far, I have taken Vinyasa, Power & Balance, Heated Core, and Hot Power Yoga. I was reluctant to go the heated route (due to my “ruddy” complexion) but it feels so good to sweat so much! My skin looks no worse for wear and I am already feeling a difference in my flex-ability.
Blooming Lotus Yoga Studio
My plan is to make yoga a big part of my weekly routine after I finish the month. I think that alternating yoga with my weight resistance program (ChaLEAN Extreme) and other summer activities (bicycling, swimming, etc.) will be a great combination for me.
Stef (one of the awesome BLYS yoga instructors) has suggested I read the book Light on Life by BKS Iyengar. I just reserved it at the library. She also recommended www.yogajournal.com . Thanks, Stef!
What are some of your favorite healthy activities? I have a tendency to be on the sedentary side and I do love my meals, so the more inspiration I can give and receive, the better…
You go girl !!!! I have been practicing yoga off and on for about 6 years. I love it when I have the time to do it. Between biking, working out, weight lifting at Fitness Together, and working crazy hours I have not been doing my yoga for 3 or 4 months. I would like to get back into it, but I don’t see that happening until the fall. When I’m on the Cape this summer, if you and Paul are there, I’ll come to a yoga class with you.
I often do yoga via DVDs at home, but I agree that classes are necessary first to understand the correct posture of the poses, otherwise it’s very easy to injury yourself.
I can’t believe you will be here when we are on the way there! It looks like we will be there when you are back, though…which pleases me greatly.
Hope you enjoy the Martha’s Vineyard pics – we didn’t make it to Menemsha but I definitely want to go back. Paul needs to see the Vineyard!
Having 3 Great Danes doesn’t really lend itself to sitting still for long. I hike with at least one of them every day, but don’t get me wrong – we’re not sprinting to the top of Bergen Peak or anything : )
Yay for you for yoga!
You look like you sprint to the top of Bergen Peak every day, if that is any consolation : )
Hey V! Nice work on the Yoga! That’s tough and I am proud of you for making the most of your one month membership! You know me… I would rather be sitting down to some ultra delicious, ultra high fat/high calorie meal than trying to eat healthfully and exercise. Plus, any type of emotional high or low causes me to crave something really yummy, so being healthy is a constant struggle for me!
I have to have some accountability to someone in order for something to work as I tend not to hold myself accountable. I recently started a boot camp with a group of ladies and a fantastic trainer. I get myself out of bed and head out the door when I know someone is waiting for me and I will have to answer to them if I don’t show. I have NEVER regretted getting up and working out, but I have often regretted staying in bed and not doing anything good for myself.
Love ya and miss ya!
Lee
Indeed. Indeed! Guess what, old and dear friend of mine? You won the latest CC Prize Drawing! Did you even know there was one?!? Exciting, isn’t it?
Hmmm…what shall I send you? I know what I won’t send…a gift certificate to the Cheesecake Factory (teehee). What I wouldn’t give for a veggie sub from Big D’s…
We will be in CO for a week or so in August…can we meet for a (low calorie) breakfast at Bear Creek? XOX
Hi V,
That’s so good. I’m happy that you’re getting into it and you’re inspiring me to get off my A__. I do love my excuses though and will have to fight through them to get to a class. You will be my shining example.
Let’s talk. I’ll call you or call me.
Love, Joyce
I have to admit, this has been one discombobulating weekend. I don’t need to tell you about discombobulation lately though, do I?
Let’s get back on track this week – even if it is just to walk around Onset…
I did post a small blurb on Onset a while ago but it deserves so much more – want to take random pics with me around town for our blogs?
Valynne,
Im excited that you’ve rediscovered yoga! Funny, Ive been doing the same here in Evergreen. I LOVE it and feel imbalanced on the days I cant get to a class. We have vinyasa, hot yoga, and a stretch class at Evergreen Center for Yoga so when you come, you can be my guest and try out the classes. xoxox