Namaste

Saturday I was introduced to yoga with a private lesson. Yes, a private yoga lesson does sound very pretentious but I assure you that there was a good reason for it. My physician suggested that I try yoga as a way to improve my balance after my spinal fusion. But there were concerns on both our parts about finding a good instructor. I didn’t want to jump into a class at the YMCA and accidentally injure myself with an improper posture or something like that.

Through various channels I found an instructor that specializes in working post-op with orthopedic patients. She even has experience with spinal fusion patients. We finally connected on Saturday. We definitely connected. The instructor’s energy and enthusiasm was infectious.

I loved my first yoga experience. The one hour session flew by. My body felt wonderful! My instructor told me that I was a natural. Me? A natural? I’m not a natural at anything on dry land. I’m a natural at swimming and that’s it. But as the session progressed I found that the way my body moved as a whole I could understand how the yoga movements related to swimming motions. It was an a-ha moment for me. I never had a physical a-ha moment before.

One of my favorite parts of the session was the few minutes of meditation at the end. Then the final Namaste. Namaste is the Sanskrit word for “I bow.” I bow to you to honor you. I honor all that is good in you. This was first time I ever performed this exchange with someone and I truly felt it.

My instructor was so pleased with my ability she said that I could move right into a beginner’s yoga class. That was great news because I could afford only one private session. I selected a Saturday morning class she leads that incorporates both yoga and meditation. I can’t wait to attend.

Oh, the best part… I woke up Sunday morning and I wasn't sore at all!