These Pretzels Are Making Me Thirsty!

I started taking yoga classes about five weeks ago.  I had been planning to for over a year but finally got around to it.  It was imperative that I find some "me time" and this class was near the house, affordable and flexible (no pun intended).  I didn't really know what to expect, but I can say that any expectations I had in my subconscious have been exceeded.

First, I am getting in shape.  I know this because the class runs in month-long cycles starting out easy and getting progressively harder, with modifications for the more experienced.  The first class kicked my ass.  I was so sore the next day I could barely move.  Honestly.  No exaggeration.  Other classes were difficult as well, but I noticed the more routine poses getting easier.  Tuesday was the first class of a new cycle and where the first class I attended was very difficult, Tuesday seemed very easy, even with some of the modifications.  I am getting stronger and more flexible, and it feels good.

Second, I am toning up.  I can tell that parts are less saggy and that I am slimming down just slightly.  Some of that might be due to the excessive heat that we've been experiencing here, but some of it I'm sure is from the yoga, too.  Muscle groups I thought were strong, like my legs, are proving me very wrong.  And I'm building upper body stregnth at an alarming rate.

Third, I'm really enjoying it.  Sure, at the end of a long day--and on Thursdays, the end of a long week--I don't really feel like going, but after each class I'm glad I went.  I'm able to do more once I get home and not feel like crashing right at 9:00.  It is helping me regulate my appetite better and drink more water, which is a bonus.  I wasn't sure about any type of group class at first since I'm not really a group activity type of person, but it really is just about focusing on yourself and doing what you can, pushing yourself a little harder each time.  Just having two nights a week that are all mine, where I can relax and exercise at the same time while also enjoying it have made a world of difference in my mental state and general attitude.  I hope to continue but hockey season is getting ready to start up and the games conflict with the class schedule, but I will attend as many classes as I can.