In the early months of the pandemic, I didn't host yoga sessions. At that time in my journey, I taught only group classes in corporate environments and private sessions in students' homes. So my business ended on the spot as we all stayed safe at home.
Although I had friends who posted instructional videos online, and many studio leaders successfully pivoted to live virtual classes, most of the participants in our classes were so Zoom'd out and overwhelmed with business and school responsibilities, the thought of trying to do yoga while staring at the screen seemed like too much.
Until it wasn't.
Gradually, many of them started reaching out, asking if we could do something together online. Although I had reservations as an instructor, there was a vital component missing in everyone's lives and their practice.
The Sanskrit definition of the word yoga means "to join", "to yoke", "to unite". So it was only natural that people longed for their yoga community, to feel that important sense of belonging, and once again establish elements of normalcy and calm during conflicting times.
So, we tip-toed our way into the virtual world, and wow—I teared up when I first saw everyone's faces...and their practice spaces...and their furry friends! And while I couldn't always see their heads or feet, and had to drop numerous poses from each sequence to maintain safety, everyone was simply delighted to share some time with their yoga friends again.
So here we are, doing hybrid classes online and in-person all these years later with yoga friends near and far. For a short time, we reinforce our physical, emotional, and mental health with a focus on social health, too. And it's been a valuable education on the power of connection.
So that's one of the many reasons why I'm enjoying this particular book so much (you knew I'd get around to mentioning it eventually!) In it, the author provides different tips on how to cultivate better connections on various levels, based on your needs, and how this practice helps you thrive. Fascinating stuff! And, in the spirit of joining, I'm reading this as part of the Des Moines Public Library's "Books That Will Change Your Life" non-fiction book club. We'll discuss this book on November 13th, so if you're in the area, please make the time to participate!
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