365 Days of Yoga: Reflections on the Journey So Far…

Did you know that there is a yogi amongst us, who has been rolling out her mat consistently for the last 160 days? 

Emma has been coming to KHY since the very beginning, quietly attending the 6am hot and evening yin classes. On the days she is not practicing at the studio, she is consistently rolling out and stepping onto her mat at home - albeit, sometimes negotiating with her furry friends for space on the mat!! I've known Emma for sometime now, and I find her commitment inspiring - no matter what the odds, Emma makes it work, and so far it's working for Emma. 

---

I’m not one to set new year’s resolutions, not usually my thing at all. This year seems to be different, I just felt that this was the year I would practice yoga everyday. And so far, I have. 160 days of rolling out my mat. 

My goal was small, a minimum of ten minutes, every day. Most days it’s more, much more, but some days I only have ten minutes. It’s amazing what a difference those ten minutes can make, and how much that adds to the power of consistency. 

Embarking on this journey I felt like an imposter, when I tell people I practice yoga everyday surely I should be very bendy, very stretchy and very zen! I’m none of those things, yet slowly I’m feeling less like an imposter and  gaining a deeper understanding of myself and my practice of yoga. Here are some of the key lessons I've learned and the challenges I've encountered along the way:

1. Consistency is Key.

One of the most significant takeaways from this challenge is the power of consistency.

​By committing to practicing yoga every day, even if it's just for a few minutes, I've cultivated a sense of discipline and dedication that has spilled over into other areas of my life. Whether it's a busy day or I'm feeling tired, showing up on my mat has become non-negotiable. And making that non-negotiable time for myself has become easier. 

2. Mind-Body Connection.

Through daily practice, I've deepened my awareness of the mind-body connection. Yoga has taught me to listen to my body and to be present in the moment. I've learned to recognize the signals of tension and stress and how to release them through movement and the practice that best serves me on that day. I started with a list of classes and youtube video’s, now I regularly lay on my mat and think about what I need, then do that. I feel more connected with myself. 

3. Inner Strength and Resilience.

Yoga has shown me that strength is not just physical but also mental and emotional. Some days the time on the mat has felt like a battle, negotiating each pose and arguing with myself about how much more I can do. Other days it flows. The harder days show me I do have more inner strength than I realise. As I navigate the challenges on and off the mat, I emerge stronger and more empowered. I never regret rolling out the mat. 

4. Self-Compassion & Acceptance.

One of the greatest gifts of yoga is the practice of self-compassion and acceptance. Through gentle observation and non-judgmental awareness, I’m learning to embrace myself exactly as I am, imperfections and all. Developing a regular yin practice over the year has really assisted with this aspect of my practice. 

5. Community & Support.

While yoga is often portrayed as an individual practice, I've found immense support and wonderful friendship within the yoga community.  I've discovered a sense of belonging and encouragement that has been invaluable. I’ll be endlessly grateful for the supportive community at Kapiti Hot Yoga. ​

​Despite the many benefits and joys of my yoga journey, it hasn't been without its challenges. There have been days when I've struggled to find the motivation to roll out my mat, moments of frustration when I couldn't master a pose, and times of self-doubt when I questioned whether I was making progress or even had the time to practice.  So far, I've learned to embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth and to trust in the process. 

As I look ahead to the next 206 days of my yoga challenge, I'm excited to continue deepening my practice, exploring new techniques, improving old ones, and embracing whatever lessons and challenges come my way. With each breath, each asana, and each moment of mindfulness, I'm grateful for the transformative power of yoga in my life. 

Namaste.

---

Thank you so much Emma, for sharing your journey with us so far, we cannot wait to see how it ends!