Yoga has become one of the world's most trendy exercises, as the concept of holistic health is very much the main stream now. I first came cross Yoga two or three years ago. However, it never inspired me much because my teachers back then simply asked us to follow what she was doing, mostly gymnastic or circus-like movements. Every time after a Yoga class, my body would be in completely stiff “robot mode” for several days and made me wonder why Yoga books lied to us about how Yoga would make our bodies supple and comfortable. When I was about to abandon Yoga altogether, I accidentally discovered SPACE with my sister. After a few classes I was totally excited. I told myself, this is the Yoga I want! So this is how I became inseparable from Yoga – I actually fell in love with Yoga!
In every class, the teacher always teaches with great attention and compassion. The Oming helps us to bring awareness into every moment, while the breath keeps our bodies stable. From the stiff robot in the beginning, now I can actually do several what-once-were-“mission impossible” poses. I see a change in me in every practice. Just like the teacher says, you will encounter many surprises along the way as long as you can courageously open your heart. Instead of resisting, just honestly face, listen to, experience, and enjoy your body. In doing so, the great power will in turn be released from within you to blossom your heart.
Yoga has not only provided me with physical health and growth but has also quenched my thirsty soul in this intense urban environment. Every practice is like farming – while the Asanas cultivate my body, the Pranayama and meditation fertilize and enrich my inner being. The whole process is simply a beautiful life experience. When I stand on the space within the mat, I can just concentrate and breathe with a mind at peace. Without heavy make-up or name-brand clothing, I can leave all the rights and wrongs outside of this space. All I hear is the teacher's sweet instructions and the sound of the breath, propelling the powerful infinite potential within me with a soft and open heart. I know I can just keep going deeper. I will not stop because this is an endless practice. Try it out and see it yourself. You will soon experience something marvelous.
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