Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot

I’m a hot yoga convert. The idea of working out in 105-degree temperatures by choice sounds pretty ludicrous. And until recently, my relationship with yoga was a tricky one.

But anything that lets me look like this after 90 minutes and doesn’t involve running…

…is a winner.

Note: need to start wearing waterproof mascara to class.

The class I took on Wednesday night was particularly good, because the teacher gave us a lot to think about — without getting too hippie-ish. Instead, through the practice, she talked to us about doing our best in every position and in every moment — but trying to keep it effortless.

When she first said that, I sort of rolled my eyes. Yoga is freaking hard. My body shakes, sweat pours off my body, I fall out of position…it’s a workout, not a day at the spa.

But as we got into triangle, and camel and crow and other twisty, tricky maneuvers, I started to understand what she was saying. That engaging your muscles is not the same as holding them to their breaking point; you can push yourself hard without feeling the strain.

I don’t know if the heaters fried my brain, or if I just needed to get some mental relief from some projects that have been taking up my time and energy, but this class and this message were exactly what I needed.

If I give my best, and I try and be my best every single day, it’s OK if I don’t reach every goal or if it takes me longer than I’d like.

It’s OK to ask for help and to say no when saying yes would overload me.

(FYI — I’m a sponsor at Rasa-Lila Festival in Central Florida in September, along with Meghann. Want to join us? Click here for details!)

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