Christina (from Naresh’s “yogis” series)

How Yoga changed my Life (the short version)

I was always highly competitive and wanted to be the fasted, strongest and the best.  My need to be “perfect” lead me to self-criticizing tirades, which never resulted in much love or happiness, even though love and happiness were the reasons I worked out so hard in the first place.    

I started Yoga 8 years ago as a compliment to my vigorous workout routines.  I also planned on being the “best” at yoga; a thought that makes me chuckle now.  I started in my living room with a Yoga video, toppling over and giggling madly at my attempts.  Eventually, I ventured into Yoga at a gym in a group fitness class, still determined to be the “best” I would compare myself to all the other students.  I had this same competition with myself until I stared taking Kripalu-style yoga classes at Trinity Yoga.  I was suddenly challenged in a new and greater way.  I was challenged to slow down and to love myself for who I am.  I was quick to take the Trinity Yoga Teacher Training and my Yoga practice has evolved from competition and self-criticism to compassion and self-love. 

Take it from a recovering perfectionist, exercise addict and self hater; there is no great gift to receive than love for and from yourself!  This is something I would have never found without Yoga and am truly thankful for.