Yoga leads to a more meaningful appreciation of life through meditation

By Amanda Stonely, News Correspondent

From the moment I first stepped on my mat I was hooked. I immediately knew yoga would play a significant role in my life. I was initially drawn to yoga as a fitness endeavor, though I found myself returning to my mat day after day for the mental benefits. I felt completely at peace with my mind after every class.

The more I practiced, the more that feeling of calm and tranquility translated into my daily life. Almost four years later, yoga has completely transformed my life in many ways. I find myself planning my days around my yoga schedule.

The mind-body connection that yoga instills has taught me so much about myself and subsequently changed my perspective on life. I find myself worrying less about what will happen next by living life in the present moment. I have gained a true sense of contentment and am more appreciative of everyone and everything in my life.

My mom jokes that the reason my sister and I are so involved with yoga is because she did yoga while she was pregnant with both of us. This past year, my sister became a certified yoga instructor. I have witnessed firsthand the positive effects teaching yoga has had on her life. Being able to take a class taught by my sister has been my ultimate yoga experience.

My life is more balanced as a result of yoga. I now recognize that health and fitness are vital components to well-being. The more I practice yoga, the less I find myself consuming toxins, such as unhealthy food and alcohol. My consistent practice of yoga has helped me find the control to modify my eating habits considerably. Occasionally, I fall off the path that yoga has helped me create, but I know I can get back on track by returning to my mat.

The benefits of yoga are endless. In addition to the more obvious advantages such as flexibility, strength and balance, the breathwork that yoga helps to improve lung capacity.

Through the combination of postures and breathing, yoga reduces stress and calms the mind. Several researchers believe there is a direct correlation between yoga and happiness, even deeming it a type of therapy. Yoga also has positive effects on medical conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, asthma and injuries.

Yoga does not discriminate. No matter your age, shape or size, I recommend trying yoga. It does not matter if you consider yourself weak or inflexible – yoga will work in a safe way to stretch your muscles. Yoga is multifaceted. No matter what entices you to step on your mat that first time, I can assure you will gain so much more than you ever expected. The most important piece of advice I can offer is to take your first class with an open mind.

I challenge you to take advantage of living in a city that offers so many different kinds of yoga. From hot power to Bikram to Hatha, Forrest and more, there is a style of yoga for everyone. Several studios offer first time savings as well as student discounts. I plan to be certified to teach yoga one day in hopes that my love for it can impact someone else’s life as much as it has impacted my own. Namaste.