Magic Yoga

As I've mentioned in previous posts, I've been in a funk and just can't seem to shake it. We'll chalk it all up to (another) quarter life crisis but there are bigger things I'm working on. Factor in the fact that I am still feeling a bit of pain when I run and since running is my escape and my stress reliever, it is truly upsetting to me.

Two weeks ago, I told Jess about a free yoga class hosted by Laughing Lotus, a yoga studio here in New York. Once a week, on Wednesday evenings, they host a free outdoor yoga class. KMDF and I went a few years ago and I was happy to see they still do this. Since Jess and I are both dealing with (stupid) boy issues, I thought it would be a good idea for us to go, stretch, and get back into yoga.

Last week was the first class we could attend. Luckily, the rain held off and we had a beautiful breezy evening. It was truly magical. I forgot how therapeutic yoga is. It is not the same as doing it my living room off Exercise TV. The instructor was amazing and after three OM's and a prayer song I immediately felt my stresses release. Jess and I emerged from class with smiles on our faces, feeling like weight had been lifted off our shoulders. My yoga high lasted for a few days and I couldn't wait to go back.

Last night was the same. I was having a bad day and the only thing getting me through was knowing that yoga was at the end of my day. I knew it would make me feel better and I couldn't wait to let everything out through breathing and vinyasa's. What I like most about these classes is that every week is a different instructor so each class is completely different.

There is something about being an "urban yogi" that makes me happy. Taking time out of our busy weeks to convene in a small park between the West Side Highway and 10th Avenue as the sun sets over the Hudson, hearing the sounds of the city- sirens, cars, people walking by, shouting- but being in our own places, physically and mentally, that almost makes it more relaxing, connecting with the city I love.

I slept better last night than I have in weeks. I felt and still feel relaxed and happy. Maybe this is even better than my weekly therapy session-good for the mind and body.

Tomorrow Jess and I are attending a hot yoga class-my first-with Yoga to the People. It's 90 minutes of traditional hot yoga and I'm a little nervous, coupled with being extremely exciting to try something new.

I think I may have a new obsession.