The bumbling hulk

28 April 2009

Today I went to my first yoga class in a few weeks. Due to all kinds of crap, I had fallen off the exercise waggon and was feeling pretty lousy as a result. It was tough to get there, as I've been busy as hell at work lately, but I dragged myself in, and overall I'd say that it was worth it.

But by the end I did feel like a total lummox. Now, I'm a pretty big guy, so some of the poses can be a bit tricky for me. It just seemed like no matter what I did I was drawing unwanted attention to myself. Knocking over a wooden block during a 'quiet' transition, getting tangled in a strap, grimacing during a particularly tough pose, and just generally feeling like I'm taking up WAY too much space.

I know that I shouldn't worry about stuff like that. I don't judge others at yoga, and chances are they aren't judging me. I just need to learn how to shut off the self-critical part of my mind.. just as easy as that right 8).

Oh, and it didn't help that I forgot to clean my mat. I have the sticky type of mat, so any tiny bit of dust stays and really shows. Ick.

But I'm feeling well rested this morning, and hoping for a less stressful day. Here's hoping!

 

I'm extremely critical of myself. I've always wanted to try yoga, but I'm so uncoordinated I think every one would laugh at me.

 

you shouldn't let that stop you from doing something you've always wanted to do. other people don't matter that much.

 

Yeah, I know. I'm usually able to convince myself of that, but last night I was pretty tired. The more tired I get the more I tend to lapse into my old, unpleasant mindset.

Spork-- any studio worth its salt will have beginner classes for just such a situation. That's how I started, and I'd recommend it to anyone. Not only is everyone in the same boat, but usually only modified (i.e. easier) poses are done. Look into it, I think you'd really enjoy it.

 

I never feel regret after exercise. I always feel great and glad I did something....even if I felt it was not my personal best. Yoga has helped me to achieve consistant positive self awareness and the brilliance of breath.

 

spork, i have taken yoga in partially dark rooms which really helped for the self conciousness. and like dave said, beginner classes are really geared toward someone with no to little knowledge of the poses.

 

It takes a REAL man to do yoga. Good for you just having the balls to get to it.

 

The lights are dim in the classes I take. Who wants to look up at glaring lights? I watch myself in the mirror and work to maintain form and breath. I am not paying attention to others. UNLESS they fart, giggle, or speak.