I recently started practicing yoga consistently, on a mat. After only six months I've barely scratched the surface, and yet yoga has already helped me be true to myself.
It helped me find the inner strength to make an agonizing career change, and cleared my head so I could get out of my way while riding Koda.
I am happier, just ask my husband. I am more balanced, just ask my horse. I am more at peace, just ask my heart.
Yoga has made me physically and mentally stronger. Have I lost a ton of weight? Nope. If that is what you seek, you are missing the point of yoga. I can say the same exact thing about horseback riding, it makes me physically and mentally stronger.
When I talk to others about yoga or horseback riding, I typically find one of three things (in order of frequency):
1) Resistance "can't do it because of _________ "
I assure you, you can do yoga. It's not about twisting into a pretzel. It's about connecting your mind with your body. You can do that in a chair if needed, or in the presence of a horse.
Barring major physical exceptions, you can also ride a horse. You just haven't met the right horse, or person to help you find the right one.
Find a quality instructor for yoga or horseback riding. It's worth the time.
2) Glazed Response
The conversation ends before it begins. These people just don't get it. If you've read this far, be thankful you are not one of them. I am.
3) Wishful Thinking
How many times have you heard "I've always wanted to...or wish I could..."? I try to inspire these folks. It might just be the catalyst for them to take that last step. There is only one person stopping them...
So who out there practices? Do tell. Doesn't have to be formal yoga, could just be whatever practice brings you to a mindful place. Could be running, something that used to be my reconnect. Could be the woods, which still is for me. I only wish I had regular access to woods...perhaps I should reread number 3 above.
What do you do to connect with your inner self? I know the horse lover in you does, even if you think it's weird to talk about.
I'm not going to go all yogasana on you, nor will I be taking my physical yoga practice on horseback. What I really meant to say in a nut shell, is yoga is a lot like horseback riding ~ soulfully rewarding.
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| my yogi |
