License to Chill

Lately, I've been thinking a lot about the connection between my mind and my body. I've thought about it in terms of body image -- how the way I think about my body affects the way I feel as I move through my day -- while researching and writing my book (on sale April 13th, people!). But I've also been thinking about stress and how stress feels in my body. It's got me contemplating something that I've often considered, but usually quickly dismiss: Yoga.

 

I think you all know me well enough by now to know that I tend to dismiss the "woo woo" in life. The thought of sitting in a room chanting makes me want to run for the hills. My inability to sit still is legendary. But I'm starting to notice some ill effects of stress in my body: A nightly headache. Tight shoulders. Lower back pain. Insomnia. Clearly, I need to address this.

 

I've had a lively discussion with a few writer friends recently, all of whom are regular yoga practitioners. They claim that not only do their bodies feel better, but they've strengthened the connection between their minds and their bodies. Some have learned to use yoga breathing techniques to help them relax when they're stressed at their desks. Others have said that the heightened awareness that yoga brings has them brimming with ideas (lack of ideas can be a real problem for writers). I have to admit I'm intrigued.

 

Another experience that's got me thinking about all this is a fitness class I took a few weeks ago. It combined cardio and core training, but at the end of class, the instructor did what I can only call a guided imagery kind of thing -- we all laid down on the floor, she dimmed the lights and took us through a breathing exercise while she talked. Maybe it was because I had somebody telling me what to imagine, but I found it fairly easy to play along and I sure did feel relaxed for the rest of the day. My point, and I do have one, is that maybe I do have the ability to connect my mind and body, if I just focus.

 

So yesterday, I did it -- I researched yoga studios and found one that's close enough to get to, but far enough away where I won't run into anyone I know (no public shaming!). They offer an introductory package of three classes (no long-term commitment!) and a class that's designed for absolute beginners (no looking like a dork among experts!). Though I find the thought really uncomfortable, I'm going to give it a try and, if all goes according to plan, I'll take my first class next week.

 

Tune in for that report!

 

On Tuesday, Melissa will be here to tell us how to get through Thanksgiving without having to break out the elastic-waist pants.

Comments

[Alyssa]

Good for you!!! I also have a lot of trouble sitting still and clearing my mind, and I find it A LOT easier when someone is guiding me, lol!
I LOVE yoga, and there are so many different styles. You're bound to find the one that's right for you. And it does help, especially this time of year.
Good luck!

[Roxanne]

I hope you like it. I studied yoga for a decade (pretty seriously), and I can attest to it's mental benefits.

I haven't been to an actual class in nearly 4 years (long story why), but I've recently resumed my "home practice." It's easy to forget how good yoga makes you feel.

Still, thinking about being in yoga clothes in public now gives me serious body image issues.

[Sagan]

That's too funny- you sound just like my mum! She's also quick to dismiss the "woo woo"... but she's now an veterinary acupuncturist. It's amazing how much science there is behind these kinds of things when we actually start doing the research for them.

Hope the yoga goes well! That's great that you're moving from your comfort zone, too.