My 30-Day Bikram Yoga Challenge
“You can accomplish anything with Bengal tiger strength and bulldog determination”
About a week ago, I completed a 30-day Bikram Yoga challenge. The past year I went through some major changes (some wanted, others unwanted.) I was personally going through some major challenges in my social and private life.
But the thing about me is that I am persistent. I am determined to stay positive and optimistic, even if my surrounding was not helping. I always try to see the light at the end of the tunnel, and let me tell you, IT IS NOT EASY! I was struggling; I was in a deep slump emotionally, mentally and physically.
However, instead of curling up I took it as a challenge and saw it as a chance to move myself in a better direction. So I made the decision to embark on the 30-day challenge journey. Although there was no challenge happening at the studio, I decided to simply push and motivate myself.
Now, I believe that’s enough on why I decided to start, and here is what I learned as result of doing the challenge:
1. “It’s not luck, it’s dedication”
I learned that you simply could not rely on luck. If you want to have anything in life, including a healthier body, you must work hard to achieve it. It will not be handed to you on a silver platter. During my challenge, I learned to eat healthier and avoid all kind of junk and as a result I am sleeping better and I am feeling better inside and out.
2. “There is no challenge more challenging than the challenge to improve yourself”
When I started there were many poses that I was not able to get right, either because I was not flexible enough or I just couldn’t get the right posture. But with time I slowly saw improvements with my postures and after my 30th I am able to notice a huge difference, not to mention my instructors saw the improvements; which makes me very proud.
3. “You are your own worst critic”
I, most of the time, can be extremely tough on myself; but the more I practiced the more I learned that it’s ok, as long as I am trying my best. My best today may not be my best yesterday, but IT IS OKAY! So if I fell out of a posture, I will simply stay focused and try again, instead of criticizing myself. As I simply want to honor my practice and myself. So what did I learn? There is no shame in admitting defeat; as long as you don’t give up but try again.
Through my practice, I learned to embrace and love myself beyond all my measures. To allow myself to feel and take responsibility for whatever it is I’m feeling. Love and opportunities will come and go but the only thing that is permanent in your life is YOU.
4. “Where there is love there is light”
After completing the challenge, I realized just how much I love yoga. I mean I always did, but I realize it now more than ever. I love meeting fellow yogis and learning about how and why they started their journey. Without it, I wouldn’t be who I am today & I am truly grateful for that.
Namasté
