After 3 years of practicing consistently, I realized it’s not about the poses. It’s not about flexibility. It’s not about making friends with teachers and classmates either.
It’s about showing up whatever the day felt like. It’s about finding time to connect with myself even if it’s only 15 minutes on a hectic Monday. It’s about accepting my body for what it is and what it can do.
Yoga has become part of my daily life. These are the 7 lessons I’ve learned after practicing yoga for 3 years.
1. I learned that preparing for practice is as important as the practice itself.
Invest in the right yoga mat and clothes. If you are serious about yoga, this is and will be a daily thing that you do for over one hour each day.
Don’t get into uncomfortable clothes and underwear that will cause chafing, itchy, and don’t fit you well.
Get a mat that has a firm grip and won’t let you slip. This is what I’ve been using. It still feels and looks brand new.
Trying out aerial yoga in Ubud, Bali. This was the first and last time. Photo by Anna Meinke.
2. I learned the importance of having one teacher to guide me through my practice.
When the student is ready, the teacher will appear. Somehow, the universe brings people into our lives — our circle — who can make a profound impact on us whether we ask or not.
My yoga practice began when I saw a friend’s Facebook post about a class she’s holding in a nearby studio. I attended for several days and the rest is history.
Have meaningful conversations with people about what and who they know. Make the right connections and it will get you somewhere.
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