LIVE THE LIFE YOU LOVE

Itook my first yoga class 15 years ago. We did simple stretches while resting on the floor. Breathing was the key. Staying present was our focus.

A few months later I walked into my first hot yoga studio.

I was living in Buffalo, NY, at the time. The heat felt heavenly on my achy and cold body.

Many people think yoga is just a physical exercise. Most won’t even try a class.

This is disappointing, because yoga enhances body, mind and spirit. From professional athletes to people with disabilities, yoga can benefit everyone.

In 2001, when I was very sick, I tried Svaroopa yoga in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Known as the yoga of bliss, it helped me manage pain from a serious cervical spine injury. Within 10 days I had relief and a set of tools to use when I returned home.

How do you choose the right yoga class?

Be honest about what you want to improve in your life. Is your memory not what it used to be? Do you suffer with physical pain? Is depression or anxiety an issue? Do you need to feel invigorated? Or maybe you’ve lost your sense of purpose.

Yoga can help with all of these.

4 types of yoga are:

• Restorative yoga is good for people who need to relax deeply. It is a gentle process of slowing down the breath and passive stretching. If you struggle with anxiety or think you won’t be able to stretch, this class is for you. It’s also great for seniors who want to improve memory.

• Svaroops yoga is perfect for people with spinal problems and low energy. This class focuses on releasing tension in the layers of muscles wrapped around the spine. It is a very gentle physical practice that has profound mental and emotional benefits. At the end of class you will feel pure bliss. Choose this style if you have mobility issues or just desire complete relaxation.

• Hot yoga is for you if balance, range of motion and lower body strength need to be improved. This type is also great for weight loss. Sweating helps cleanse you on a cellular level. With proper guidance, hot yoga helps manage anxiety, depression and PTSD.

• Karma yoga is for people who have lost their sense of purpose. This is known in the yoga world as selfless service. In other words you should volunteer or find someone who needs help. Serve with a kind heart, and expect nothing in return.

I have had good days and horrible days. The key to yoga is showing up and accepting where you are.

Yoga will teach you more about yourself than any book or therapy session.

Need help finding the right yoga class? Email maryjobriggsaustin@gmail.com .