by Elizabeth G

Created on: February 15, 2007   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

One of my New Year's resolutions for 2006 was to try Yoga, and hopefully go on a consistent basis. Countless people have suggested that I try it to help ease my anxiety and get a different kind of workout. My grandmother (when she was alive), my physical therapist, my friends, and especially my boyfriend have been urging me to try it.

So, I finally found the motivation to actually attend a class. Alana, my friend from high school, is a Yoga instructor. She offered to accompany me to a begginer level class at her favorite yoga studio. We met there on Monday night after I got off work.

When I started the session, I was highly-stressed. I had sat in 40 minutes of stop-and-go traffic to get there, work had been busy and stressful, and I had already worked out early that morning. But the stress quickly decreased and eventually vanished completely as the session progressed. We began with a 15 minute relaxation exercise, lying flat our our backs. This sounds easy, right? But believe it or not, it hurts to lay completely flat on your back with no pillow. I wanted to bend my knees and plant my feet on the ground. But that wasn't the position we were supposed to be in.

The session continued. On a physical level, I didn't find it very challenging. I stretch on a regularly basis and I was a dancer for 18 years. As I said above, the hardest post was lying flat on my back. It created an odd strain in my lower back. On a mental level, it was extremely challenging. My mind is constantly racing. Turning it off and quieting the thoughts is extremely difficult for me. Letting go of my anxiety is something I NEED to learn to do better. The Yoga session created the mood and enviornment I needed to let go. The guided relaxation and streching was a perfect "break" from my hectic schedule. Being told that I must relax and focus on only my breath really helped me actually do it.

Because of my insomnia, I bought some Guided Imagery CDs a few years ago. The woman guides you through relaxation and helps you create mental images in your mind. This was similar because it was a guided way of relaxation. But it was more effective because it was in its own setting. I had to focus on the relaxation. I had commited myself to spending that hour and 15 minutes to Yoga, and nothing else would distract me: the phone, the TV, the computer, etc.

When I got home, I felt rejuvinated and energized. Usually when I come home from work, I want to have dinner and go immediately to bed. I feel zonked! But this yoga class helped me feel energized and relaxed at the same time. At peace.

I do plan on trying to incorporate Yoga into my life. I will try to make the Monday night a part of my weekly schedule. I think it's just what I need to help ease my anxiety, help with my insomnia, and quiet my mind.

Learn more about this author, Elizabeth G.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.