First Practice of the Semester

My first yoga practice of the semester commenced in Lakeside Lodge at Stockton taught by Steevie. I have attended the yoga classes at the college in the past, though never engaged in any further practice. Since I have previously taken classes under the direction of Steevie, I knew somewhat of what to expect out of the evening, and could go into it with little worry.

The Lodge was filled with an apparent level of anxiety from the many newcomers in the class. This is the first class of the semester, making it naturally crowded and tense. Steevie gave a thorough introduction of yoga to the group, which might have eased a certain part of the crowd and frightened another. I felt confident and comforted by her words, and was ready to begin; though not without a bit of anxiety myself.

I am very familiar and practiced in breath work, meditation, and taking cues from my body. Since I have years of training in theatre, these essential practices have made up a large portion of my discipline. This is only to say that this has made me aware of how much I might reprimand myself for distractions, tenseness, and thought wandering. I felt prepared to try my best at sustaining focus, but mindful that I might not. My focus fluctuates throughout the evening's practice, as it tends to, but I try my best not to be disappointed by that.

At the beginning of this class, like all others, Steevie encourages us to make a goal for ourselves and our practice that evening. I make the same goal I often do, as well as a promise not to punish myself if it is not achieved in an ideal manner. In one way or another, I think the goal is always accomplished to me.