The Unvarnished Truth: Starting Something New

Let's be honest, starting yoga, or anything new for that matter, can feel a little bit uncomfortable. As we age, we become pretty set in our ways, and the thought of trying something new can really push us out of our comfort zones. But feeling this is completely normal, and it's more than okay - it's part of the process.

The Awkward Reality of Being a Beginner

Remember learning to ride a bike? Or your first day at a new job? That's what starting yoga can feel like. You're fumbling about, a bit unsure, and everyone else seems to know what they're doing.

Here's a secret, they really don't. Even the person who can twist themselves into a pretzel started where you are now.

Resistance: Your Constant Companion

When you start yoga, resistance becomes your new best friend. It shows up in many forms:

• Your body protests: You try to touch your toes, and your hamstrings scream in protest. You attempt a plank, and your arms shake after five seconds.

• Your mind wanders: You're supposed to focus on your breath, but you're thinking about your shopping list, that text message you forgot to send, or why you're even here in the first place.

• Boredom creeps in: Sometimes, yoga feels slow. Really slow. You might find yourself clock-watching, wondering when it will be over.

• Self-doubt whispers: "I'm not flexible enough for this." "I look ridiculous." "Everyone's staring at me." (They're not, by the way. They're too busy worrying about themselves.)

The Uncomfortable Truth

Here's the thing: this discomfort? It's not a sign that you're doing it wrong. It's a sign that you're doing it. Yoga isn't about nailing the perfect pose or achieving some zen-like state of bliss. It's about showing up, feeling awkward, and doing it anyway.

So, What Can You Do?

• When your body protests: Listen to it. Modify. Use props. Take breaks. Breathe deeper and slower. Your body is talking to you, pay attention.

• When your mind wanders: Notice it. Gently bring your attention back. Then do it again. And again. That's the practice.

• When boredom sets in: Get curious. What sensations can you feel in your body right now? What thoughts are passing through your mind?

• When self-doubt creeps up: Remind yourself that everyone in that room has been where you are. Even the teacher.

The Real Work

The real work of yoga isn't about mastering poses. It's about staying present when every fibre of your being wants to run away. It's about breathing through discomfort instead of immediately trying to fix or change it. In a world where we can swipe away anything that doesn't instantly gratify us, choosing to stay, with the discomfort, with the awkwardness, with the uncertainty, is a radical act.

A Different Kind of Progress

Progress in yoga doesn't always look like touching your toes or mastering a fancy pose. Much more oftentimes, it looks like showing up to class even when you don't feel like it. It looks like staying in a pose for one more breath when you want to come out of it. It looks like being a little kinder to yourself when you struggle.

An Invitation

So here's our invitation to you: Come as you are. Tight hamstrings, wandering mind, and all. Embrace the awkwardness. Lean into the discomfort. Allow yourself to be a beginner. Because here's the truth: every time you step on that mat, you're doing something brave. You're choosing to be present in a world that's constantly pulling you away from yourself. And that, more than any pose, is what yoga is all about.

Welcome to the practice. It's not always comfortable, but it's always worth it.