Yoga: A Wonderful Practice

Yoga truly is a fantastic practice. Over the years, I’ve picked it up on and off, and the beauty of it lies in its simplicity. Grab a yoga mat, download an app, and you’re on your way. Just like that—you’re doing yoga.

One of my favorite experiences was participating in a 30-day yoga challenge. My partner and I tackled it together, which kept us motivated. Our building even had a dedicated yoga room—complete with adjustable lighting to keep the vibe low-key and serene. It was tucked away at the end of a quiet hallway, making it the perfect spot for peaceful practice. Here's the best part: we kind of snuck in. If we slipped in just before closing time, no one ever came to check. Breaking the rules added a hint of mischief, making it all the more enjoyable.

For a long time, I practiced at home using my favorite app, Yoga Studio. It’s a gem! They offer routines for every level—beginner, intermediate, and expert—plus flexible session lengths: 15, 30, or 60 minutes. Whether you want to focus on balance, flexibility, relaxation, or an all-around flow, they’ve got you covered. The instructions are crystal clear, the videos are easy to follow, and the pacing is spot-on. I used this app several times a week and loved it.

Then, a few months ago, I decided to level up and attend an in-person class. Funny story—it turned out to be a heated yoga class. These are super popular in Florida, where I live. Unlike Bikram yoga, which blows hot air into the room, this studio used infrared heat to warm it to a toasty 105 degrees. Let me tell you, my first class was intense!

I wasn’t used to doing 60 minutes of yoga, let alone in sauna-like conditions. As a kid, I quit gymnastics because I hated sweating—so this was a big leap. But oh, the sweat! I’ve never seen it pour down my body like that. My face was flushed, my hair drenched, my tank top soaked. Yet, despite the challenge, there was something magical about the experience.

The last 10 minutes of class were pure bliss. You lie on your mat, lights dimmed, as fans gently cool the room. Just as you’re marveling at what you’ve put your body through, the instructor comes by with a cold towel infused with a touch of essential oil. That chilled, fragrant towel on your forehead feels like heaven. As you cool down, she recites a bit of wisdom—often about gratitude for your body, your journey, and the moment. Lying there, spent but proud, I knew I’d be back.

Yoga is versatile. You can do it solo, with a partner, or in a group class. You can sneak into a dim yoga room, roll out a mat in your living room, or sweat it out in a heated studio. I’ve loved every one of these experiences.

If you haven’t tried yoga yet, I encourage you to give it a go! And if you have, I’d love to hear about your journey.

Cheers to being Green, Wild, and Free!