Discussion Board

Back in March my Mother celebrated her 70th birthday. She's still working, so comes home stressed. I decided to give her 16 sessions of gentle yoga. I knew she'd never go alone so I got me a set also.

Last night was our first class. I was surprised to come out of it slightly sore and today my hamstrings are really sore. This surprised me since I purposely walk hills several times a week. I was also relaxed. A good combo. We even did some moves that were on the core exercises we were doing this past fall. That reminded me that maybe I should be doing some since I felt this little gentle yoga.

it's interesting, isn't it, Faith? i had a similar experience when i took a yoga class a while back. the soreness was just from holding positions with muscles we just don't use commonly....

did your mom enjoy the class?

you're a great daughter!

We purchased mats last week (week 2). They are comfortable but also firm enough. Tonight is the third lesson.

Mom was a little uneasy after the first lesson. The second lesson was so much better. Something happened to part of the class and we had more room. The teacher was also more at ease instead stressed. She was able to go around on comment and help us get the correct form. I also liked the moves she brought out this week. We came out of there feeling much more excited. Mom who isn't able to do as much, got the benefit of the teacher helping her modify the moves. I had emailed the teacher before I even signed up that Mom had some phyiscial limitations. We also got in the back of the room. Then Mom could see she wasn't the only one not able to fully execute the moves. This really helped her attitude.

I have heard this from a yoga teacher before- it goes something like this:

Everyone who comes to a yoga class is different, some people are going to be great at poses and some other people are not going ot be quite as good. You shouldn't spend the class comparing your asana to other people's. You must focus only on yourself and that is the best way to prevent injury doing yoga.

I am in my 20's and do you think I can do downward dog with my heels touching the floor? I don't think so. Are there girls in my beginner's yoga class who do it with ease? You bet. But, I don't let this bother me.

Keep up the good work, yoga is very rewarding.

Thank you Kale. The timing is perfect. I needed that gentle little kick in the booty. I start Teacher Training this weekend. I've been nervous that I won't be a good as the others and that I will be so much older etc. I will enjoy and concentrate on myself and all I get out of yoga. I will look forward to expanding my love of it.

I'm willing to bet you'll do just fine. Go, learn, enjoy!