Yoga vs. Miles

I’ve done yoga twice this week — two 20 minute workouts, using a DVD I’ve had for years.

My first experience with yoga was nine years ago. I was pregnant with my first child and was given a yoga DVD especially designed for mamas with ever growing bellies. After giving birth, I did a “baby and me” yoga series.

Since then, I’ve started and stopped a routine of yoga workouts countless times.

I’m a runner, right? And while I have always known that yoga complements and strengthens a runner’s body, I’m so limited on time to work out that if forced to choose, I have always chosen running shoes over a yoga mat.

Lately however, running has become a chore, akin to washing dishes or folding socks — something that should probably be done today but can wait until tomorrow if necessary.

Well folks, I’m tired of waiting until tomorrow to work out. There is always another tomorrow and I’ve been slacking on not just the miles, but in taking care of my body as a whole –

Which brings me back to why I’ve done yoga this week.

Running has become a one-dimensional nuisance to me lately. The miles – whether on the road or treadmill – have felt empty and almost boring (gasp!). So instead of running with the frequency I was once accustomed to, this week I gave yoga another shot…and no kidding, it has felt dramatically different than past attempts. I have felt connected to my body and soul in a deep and unique way. I have felt intentional in caring for my whole self.

I feel stretched out and relaxed. And happy.

I’m looking forward to some rugged trail running this weekend. Nothing beats trail running. But I’m determined to give yoga another shot. I am so determined, in fact, that I added a yoga category to this site. Please check back frequently to see what posts have been added.

Who knows? Maybe yoga is exactly what I need to create another dimension to my miles.