A new student joined us recently for his first yoga class ever - let's call him Bob. As I do with all new students (and regular students, as well) I spent a few moments with him after class to see how it went.
"I wish I had started this 20 years ago!" was Bob's response.
We hear this sentiment often from our students. They look back with regret for not starting then. Often times, this becomes the reason - or excuse - for not beginning now, today, right where you are.
Certainly Bob had several opportunities to begin a yoga practice over the past 20 years, but something kept him from starting. I see this happen all the time. I listen to the excuses people have for not taking care of themselves and it's painful to watch, but one thing I have learned is that we can only help those who are ready for help.
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.”
We've all been there, right? Maybe you can relate. It's so easy to blame our body, our schedule, our job, our kids - and all the other things that keep us from doing what we truly know we need to do.
I'm not sure yet if Bob will continue practicing yoga, but I do know we can learn something valuable from this. Consider that it's our resistance, excuses and discomfort that keep us from getting what we want. Our resistance, excuses and discomfort are the very things that keep us from growth and transformation.
What is stopping you from beginning or staying committed to your practice? Examine your resistance, excuses or discomfort and choose a new way forward. If you've been waiting to start, stop waiting. Waiting leads to regret and there is nothing more painful than regret.