How Yoga Works (Chapters 1 - 16)

I've really enjoyed reading this book because it's actually an easy and quick read.  It really simplifies the sutras.  I know I'm supposed to be a college student that is able to do critical reading, but sometimes it's nice to read a book that spells everything out.  I definitely can relate to the captain in that I began very hesitant about yoga.  I wasn't sure what yoga could do for me and if I would be any good at it.  However, I'm learning that yoga has really improved how I feel even if we only have had three classes.  I am interested in how the book continues to incorporate the sutras into the story and to learn more about practicing yoga through this book.

The First Four Sutras

I was one of the students that read all four chapters for class.  I'm so glad that we only needed to read the first four sutras.  I can already tell that I will have a hard time accomplishing the cessation of the fluctuations of the mind.  During class yesterday, I couldn't stop thinking about certain things.  I'm going through a tough time right now with some personal issues; all I could think about during yoga was what I'm going through.  I really want to be able to stop the fluctuations of the mind and be able to relax and reflect on myself.  I know that right now it might not be possible because wounds are still fresh, but maybe in a few weeks I will actually be able to stop constantly thinking about this pain.  Even after the pain fades, I think I'll still have a tough time not thinking about things in general.  I'm a thinker and worrier.  I'll really need to apply myself if I want to reach the point of cessation.

I'm so sorry for being such a downer.  I promise I'm not always like this.  This class has really helped me in dealing with everything.  I'm really grateful to be in the class and to have amazing people practicing yoga with me.

My First Week of Yoga

My favorite pose right now is Mountain.  I really enjoy it because I can do this pose anywhere and not feel awkward about people watching me because it looks just like I'm standing.  I've tried doing this pose while standing around and found that I really did feel taller and my shoulders didn't ache as much.  My shoulders tend to ache, so I'm glad I have found a pose that helps ease the pain.  I feel that all the poses have really opened up my chest and helped my breathing.  Dr. Schultz asked us to notice how we stand normally.  I find that I shift most of my weight onto my right side whether it's when I'm standing or sitting.  I need to make a greater effort to balance my weight.  I also find that my shoulders usually slump down and forward.  I should try to stand a bit taller and push my shoulders back.  I have really bad posture, so I hope to use the yoga poses to improve my posture.  This is such a great start to yoga!

About Me

My name is Melissa Tran.  This will be my first time taking a yoga class.  I'm really excited about this course because I've always wanted to learn more about yoga.  I hope to gain a greater sense of peace through yoga and to learn how to relax just a little bit; usually I'm very high-strung and put under lots of stress.