I've got a love-hate relationship with...

Not Bikram

Bikram Yoga!

Check this out...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEzznV7LlyA

This past week, I have found myself back in the sweat cell of Bikram yoga. Months ago, a new studio opened around the corner from me. A huge sign was posted advertising a 40% off deal for the first 50 people. So, there I was, eager as a beaver signing up for 40 classes without ever trying this style of yoga. How could I resist a deal!  I'm a yoga teacher so how hard could it be, right? I was in for a shock....

My first class was the worst possible situation to be in. I found a great corner spot,  unraveled my mat, and began 'shifting mind sets' as I drifted into savasana. I was awakened to a half dressed man who turned on the bright lights, and welcomed me to the class. I looked around and realized I was the only participant. I nervously told him that he could cancel the class, however that was not an option for him. So, there I was one on one...*awkward* doesn't even begin to describe it.



Not Bikram

Bikram is a complete mind game. The class begins with a breathing exercise, followed by 26 postures, concluding with 1 breath exercise. Despite who teaches or where you take a class, the exact same postures, in the exact same order are done. The postures are not necessarily hard, however, it's a very challenging style of yoga. Withstanding the heat is your goal....it really is a meditative activity....a complete mind mess. I'm not going to paint a beautiful picture for you, it's hard. It's rough. It's terrible. It's amazing...

It is a complete mind game. It's all about focus and determination. It's all about your breath, mind, and body connection. You can't do this style of yoga without the triad working together. I've now completed my 7th class and it gets better. It's challenging and I hate it at times. However, I must ask 'WHY?'. Why do I hate it so much? Am I uncomfortable? Do I hate challenge? Do I quit when the going gets rough? It's all about persisting through a challenge....remaining focused....it's all about meditation. The days that I arrive with too much on my mind, are the worst days. I feel sick, I feel tired, I feel dizzy, I feel out of control, and I spend most of the class on my mat in the fetal position trying my best not to suffocate from the sweat or heat.



Wheel Pose - not in the
Bikram series,
but one of my favs.

But, I LOVE it.  I love the feeling I have when leaving the class. I feel alive, vibrant, energetic, and feel a sense of achievement and empowerment. I feel more positive and determined. This feeling joins me into the next day....it really is amazing! (*I also kind of love the heart pounding calorie burn!)

What do you have a love-hate relationship with? (Post on Facebook)

 

 

Weekly Overview

Accomplishments

* Green Smoothies - still loving the green smoothies daily! This week, I'm going to try using Kale in place of Spinach.

* 3 Bikrams in one week! Yay!

* bought a new pair of skinny jeans in a smaller size!


Struggles

* Weekend Warrior - Last weekend, I slid back into my old ways. We went to Buffalo for a shopping get-away and I found myself buying 'hotel snacks'. We're talking Kit Kat bars, Sour Cream and Onion chips, Starbursts, Chocolate, Pretzels, and more! I had it all in my hands and I knew I was misbehaving but I just couldn't stop myself....hotel rooms and candy are a fantastic pairing! Next time, perhaps just one bag of candy will suffice. :)

*So, surprise surprise,  I was up 1.0 on the scale. Guh. Total buzz killer.

Confessional
* HOTEL BINGE


Goals for next week

* LOSE that 1 pound (and hopefully more).

Wedding Updates

Lots- it's been a busy 2 weeks.

- DJ/MC- booked!
- Shower - theme, invites, and bombonieres - done!
- wedding bomboniere shopping underway!
- flower girl dress - check!
- honeymoon details under way
- tux style - check!