Yoga Journal #4

 October 10, 2021

Yoga Journal #4

My yoga practice this week was a 60 minute Bikram yoga class I took at home by watching a YouTube video. However, I did not increase the temperature in the room to 105 degrees Fahrenheit. I found this practice strictly physical however I found it very energizing after our last practice as a class with Diane Polli. So i decided I would give it another try because of how challenging some of the poses were. 

My practice was ritualized by having the items I needed to enhance my experience in my practice. For this practice, I had a mat, an over-the-door mirror, and natural lighting. I also used lavender oil that would help me relaxes in my practice. Although I was at home, I observed the behaviors of those practicing in the video I watched. Everyone is quiet, focused, and ready to start their practice as soon as the teacher starts. Also, everyone had towels folded up the same on top of each mat. People also did not move, interact, or walk over one another's mat. 

I believe it's common sense to respect others' space; however, everyone doesn't think the same. Although, it made me realize that everyone in the video seemed like a like-minded group of people. The teacher was also very structured and scripted. I found it very useful to watch those in the video practice their poses because it motivates me to push myself into a deeper stretch. The community aspect of this practice influences the participants to be more aware of their own bodies and to push themselves to do better almost in a competitive way.