Yoga Goodness

I've been going to prenatal yoga the last months of my pregnancy. The classes have been a mixture between yoga practice, meditation, therapy and a friendship circle. Too bad it's only for pregnant people.

The teacher, Lisa Edelstein, is also a midwife. She just happen to love working with and talking about pregnancy and birth, and embraces every woman who walk into the studio as if they were lost souls seeking shelter. In a way we are when coming to the studio - pregnant women are vulnerable, especially first timers,  some have back pains and other hassles, and several lack good social networks because they're new to the area. Like me.

Students walk out of class feeling refreshed and appreciated - even spiritually engaged in a way.  Sometimes we hang around chatting for a while after class, or stay behind talking to Lisa in confidence about some delicate pregnancy issue - which she's always open to listen to and give advice on.

Every class has a topic of the day. Something about life in general. Last time, the topic was "gratefulness." Lisa said she used to practice with her children before bedtime - to sum up at least 3 things from the day that is worth being grateful for. "Sometimes you're just grateful that the day is over" - she said. "And that's ok too - just recognize the feeling of being grateful for it."

It is very true, though. When thinking about a few things you can be grateful for, life becomes a little bit more joyful. Worries become a little bit smaller. Annoyances become a little less relevant. It may even help you get enough peace in mind to fall asleep at night.

I never thought yoga could extend so much into my everyday life. Even though class is only twice a week, it influences the whole week. Missing a class is like missing food - things fall out of balance.

I haven't done any effort to even try getting into the philosophy and lifestyle of yoga, but I do get that it is a lot about balance and strength applied to several aspects of life. It makes sense, even though it might also be the people in class, and "Mother Lisa," that contribute this foundation of well-being.

Being open to what new experiences can offer you is a key I guess. My gosh that sounds so yoga-ish ...

Yoga One Hollywood
Shree Mama Prenatal Yoga