21 Days of Yoga
I’ve always been very goal-oriented, even from a young age. I usually jump into new activities with a “sink or swim” attitude. I’m going to get it done, no matter what.
That’s exactly how I went into a recent trial with yoga. I participated in Beachbody’s 3 Week Yoga Retreat to try something new. I thought it would help me slow down a little and the benefits would end there. Oh, was I wrong!
If you’ve ever done yoga before, you know it’s a slower workout than what I typically do. That was part of the draw, but I didn’t really expect to get much in the way of physical benefits. I learned the program as I did it, focusing on form and holding the poses.
I dreaded it at first, thinking I wouldn’t see any results. I thought there wasn’t any room for me to grow as an athlete—not with these moves.
Instead, I found myself standing taller. I gained more calm and awareness in my everyday life. I gained more strength in my core. I improved my strength and flexibility. And I lost inches all over my body.
I used to think you had to slow down to do yoga. What I realized after the 3 Week Yoga Retreat was that DOING YOGA helps YOU SLOW DOWN. So needed in today’s go-go-go world.
I had no idea.
Yoga is an amazing tool for athletes who need to stay nimble and flexible. (In fact, I had a conversation with Autumn Calabrese about the benefits of yoga for teens and athletes.) It’s perfect for new moms, to get back their core strength (after being released by their doctor). And it’s good for anyone who needs to slow down a little bit in life.
Before I started this program, I had heard about how yoga helps you develop more awareness of your body and yourself. I thought it was all woo-woo, but I understand now. I’m more patient, I have more focus and I have a much better perspective on all aspects of my life.
I love this program so much, I’m sticking with it. An advanced version is coming out soon and I’ll be sure to let you know when that is.
Live Yoga vs. Yoga Retreat
I’ve done some live yoga classes before trying out this program. My biggest challenge with live yoga classes, like most, is the time investment required and the cost involved. It’s so hard to find the time to drive to a gym, get there early to get a spot in class and drive home. With all the driving I do for my kids, having a program I can do at home is ideal.
If you’re interested in trying out the 21 Day Yoga Retreat, I’m starting a challenge group on December 12. The only thing you need is access to On Demand (and it’s free!). Let me know in the comments what makes you want to join and do yoga with me and hit me up with an email. The holidays are the perfect time to slow down so you don’t get overwhelmed with your massive to-do list! Who’s in?
