Ah. Om. Oo.
The most relaxing fitness activity I’ve experienced thus far is yoga.
Yoga originated sometime in the 2000 BC era in India. Then, it was a style of meditation which focused specifically on the attainment of tranquility and spirituality.
Nowadays we, here in the Western world, experience yoga mainly as a class you can take at your local health club. Hatha yoga, or the yoga associated with postures, breathing and meditation, is the general form we enjoy today. It had its initial boom in the US in the 60’s and was followed by a resurgence in the 80’s. It seems to be going strong today as well.
The yoga classes at our gym last an hour. As a beginner, I have a hard time holding my poses and keeping easy breathing. I am told that this improves with time and regularity of practice.
Lately, on Saturday mornings, I’ve enjoyed shorter, 30 minute yoga sessions in the comfort of our living room. I purchased a video that has a nice beach scape, pleasant instruction, and a wide selection of beginner routines.
I notice a greater sense of serenity and overall well-being after my yoga sessions. Yoga offers a nice flexibility workout, one that compliments the weight training and cardio I am able to complete during the week.
Lord Smithfield is suspicious of certain poses. When I try downward dog (a common pose), he barks incessantly. It’s as if he’s telling me, “I’m the down dog! You are not the down dog!”
Smitty’s tongue is about three inches wide. Often, when I’m in crocodile pose, he gives me a good lick right across the top of my head. To all the baldies out there, you know how strange a wet lick on the head can feel.
I look forward to improving my flexibility with yoga. So far, so good.
