Since yoga was cancelled Thursday night at Yoga Nine, I decided to take a class this morning at 9:30 at Grow Yoga. I took the all levels class. It was interesting to be back here because I used to have a membership last year, so the space and rooms looked familiar. The room was also heated.

I wasn't quite able to get too deep into that meditative state while practicing here, probably because it was a different community of people that I wasn't used to. However, I did think the class was good, and I got a good sweat in. It was suitable to all levels because with each posture, there were further, advanced options if you wanted a challenge. I think this was a great way to start my day.

This week I practiced yoga on Thursday night at Yoga Nine. The focus of the class was on binds. This was pretty challenging for me, but I realized I was more flexible than I thought I was. When practicing a bind while in a twisted triangle, I did not realize I could reach and grab my other wrist until Laurie pushed me limits and showed me I could. I appreciate those adjustments because they make me realize what I am truly capable of.

Though the class was difficult, I felt that my muscles were very stretched and elongated afterwards.  I realized this during Shivasana at the end, when Laurie told us to focus on what felt different in our bodies. I was a bit stressed throughout the day because I was very busy, but after I practiced, I felt more clear-minded and relaxed, which just shows how much of a positive effect yoga can have on a person's mental health. 

Tonight I took a class at Yoga Nine that I loved. The focus was core strengthening so it was a bit challenging at times. We also did some hip opening positions such as pigeon, which is always hard for me because I am not flexible in my hips and have weak ankles, but I was content in that position.

The end of class was the best because we worked on inversions such as head stands and hand stands which are my favorite. Laurie taught us the correct positioning of our hands, chest, neck and ribs which made it easier to do. Shivasana felt extra good at the end because we had just worked really hard throughout the class. To finally come to stillness after intense focus and movement is a rewarding feeling. This was definitely one of the better classes I've attended.