Evolution: From Point A to Point B

In the beginning, going to a yoga class was just about being able to practice. Sure, there were teachers I preferred, but at the time, I would have taken a class with almost any teacher just to have the opportunity to practice.

I remember that it was such a struggle to start a home practice. I needed the external structure offered by yoga classes to make sure that I actually got out of bed and practiced. A yoga class starts at a set time and takes place at a set location. That meant that I had to get up off my behind, get dressed and actually get myself over to the shala (yoga school/studio) in time for class. Once I was there, there was no backing out after I had gone all that way. There was also no chance to be lazy and not do a complete practice, as I was under the watchful eye of my teacher and I had the energy of my classmates to keep me going.

Once I was able to get a home practice going, I noticed that I needed classes less and less. I've learned to enjoy the silence of practicing on my own and being alone with myself. I enjoy not having to worry about finishing full primary before the class ends. I enjoy knowing that I've learned enough to be able to rely on myself and to know what to do without a teacher present.

Now I love going to a class to share my energy with others and to feel the energy of the community shared with me. That shared energy changes practice. It is not just my practice anymore, it becomes our practice. I don't need class to force me to practice anymore, I WANT to practice now and I can do that on my own. But sharing of energy and a feeling of community I can't do by myself. I love my community. I like feeling I'm a part of something. I like the feeling of belonging. I like the new friends.

Sangha. Community. Friends. Yoga Manila. Shared energy, shared practice. Yoga.

Next, I'll tell you about point C...