Yoga, as we know, is an ancient practice that involves physical poses, concentration and deep breathing- which is nothing but physical, mental and spiritual practices. Practising it makes you not just fit, but also takes you on a spiritual path.
Let me share my experience! I was not like this before (on heavier side). Of late, due to lifestyle changes, stress and even laziness, I couldn’t even concentrate on my fitness. Also, I had suffered Chikungunya long back, and its after effects are still there. I had severe joints pain; I used to feel feverish. My immunity is down because of the past viral attack and due to this lockdown (due to the pandemic) was a big punishment. I somehow made sure that I am not attacked by another virus (if it had happened, I don’t know how I would have managed).
So, as I said, due to the previous viral attack, I suffered joints issue and when it became severe, I decided to consult doctor- I went for Allopathy as I felt Ayurveda is a slow process and it would take time. Since my pain was severe, I started taking medicines. The doctor, whom I consulted, said I have Rheumatoid Arthritis (though it was initial). She was good and she gave me limited medicines and doses too were less. She even asked me to work out and go for a walk. The medicines were working for a couple of months, but again when she decreased the dose and tablets, the pain recurred and I was in so much frustration. I was thinking that I was just popping pills, which is of no use and later in my old days, I might get into some other medical issues (my liver might get damaged).
Not just joints pain. Due to office and home stress, I started having anger issues, heavy mood swings and don’t know what! I started breaking things when I was angry, which scared and hurt my loved ones. It is then I decided to do something about it and decided to go for Yoga & Meditation.
Since I didn’t have any company initially, I forced one of my friends to join me, because I was bored to go alone. She being very humble, joined me. We practised Yoga at my native with guidance of yoga teacher. Let me tell you another important thing. In today’s world, everything is virtual. Online classes are available for anyone and they can practise yoga anytime, anywhere. However, if you are a beginner, I would recommend you to join the class at least for a month, so that you get used to it. Also, if you go wrong, your teacher will be there to guide you. Yoga should be done with proper guidance- proper breathing and movements are required, else things can go wrong or it may not even work.
Now, it has been a year that I have been practising Yoga. I have stopped taking medicines. I make sure that I am on a proper diet and don’t strain myself too much. I can now confidently say that my joints pain has reduced to almost 90%. I used to get sprains (especially during periods- and every month I used to suffer the pain), but now it has just vanished! I have also lost weight- Still a long way to go though. I’m not that flexible, but I’m getting there.
My anger issues have also reduced. I don’t worry unnecessarily now. Yoga & Meditation has made me calm and patient. I don’t get unnecessarily angry on anyone who irritates me. When I’m stressed, I just think over and do what is needed instead of worrying over it and wasting my energy. This has also made me a positive person.
As it is said, “Yoga is not a work-out it is a work-in, and this is the point of spiritual practice to make us teachable to open up our hearts and focus our awareness so that we can know what we already know and be who we already are.”
On this International Yoga Day, I urge everyone to practise Yoga to stay fit and calm. It is a miracle that will change your life for good, just like it did to me! Believe it and go for it!
Share your experience by commenting below.