Transformation #7-Miracle of Yoga and Meditation
How Practicing Yoga and Meditation Helped Me Become Roj
As someone who used to think that yoga and meditation were nothing but a waste of time, I am here to share my incredible experience of incorporating these practices into my daily routine. Not only have they helped me become more focused and centered, but they have also given me a sense of peace and balance that I never knew existed. Throughout my transformation journey, I came across some amazing yoga tutorials on YouTube that took my practice to the next level. However, it’s not just about the physical aspect; my therapist played a significant role in introducing me to meditation and guiding me on how to make it a part of my daily life. Additionally, I have some fantastic products that have made my yoga and meditation routine even more enjoyable and beneficial. So, come along with me as I share my journey towards becoming Roj!
How I Discovered Ashtanga Yoga and Its Benefits
I began my yoga journey with basic Hatha yoga classes at a local studio in Tehran, Iran. While I enjoyed the classes, I wasn’t seeing the results I was hoping for. That’s when I discovered Ashtanga yoga. Ashtanga is a more intense form of yoga involving a set series of poses done in the same order each time. I hesitated to try it initially but soon fell in love with the practice.
Through Ashtanga yoga, I built strength, increased flexibility, and improved my mental health. The physical benefits were great, but what drew me to Ashtanga was its emphasis on breath and movement. The practice is like a moving meditation, which helped me to clear my mind and focus on the present moment.
My Favorite Yoga Videos on YouTube
While I enjoyed yoga classes, I couldn’t always make it to the studio, especially when I returned to Canada. That’s when I turned to YouTube. There are countless yoga videos on YouTube, but some of my favourites are those by Yoga with Adriene. Her videos are accessible to everyone, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi. For my Iranian readers, I also highly recommend the Yoga with Samin YouTube channel since she offers a wide variety of classes in Farsi, so you can always find one that suits your needs in your native language.
My Experience with Meditation Apps and Farsi Meditation Channels
While I still use the guided meditation audio from my therapist, I also use meditation apps and channels. Besides Farsi channels, one of my favourite apps is Headspace. It offers various guided meditations, so you can find one that suits your needs. In addition, the app also provides multiple meditation courses that can help you to develop regular practice.
As a native Farsi speaker, I also enjoy listening to meditation audio in Farsi. There are countless Farsi meditation channels on YouTube, but my favourite is Meditation with Sally. Her meditations are soothing, and her voice is incredibly relaxing.
My Weekly Yoga and Meditation Routine
Yoga and meditation have become a part of my daily routine. I practice yoga at least three times a week, and I meditate every day. My yoga practice usually consists of an hour-long Ashtanga class, either at the studio or home, with a video. I also like incorporating restorative yoga poses into my practice to help me relax.
My meditation practice varies from day to day. Sometimes I’ll do a guided meditation. Other times I’ll sit in silence and focus on my breath. I usually meditate for about 20 minutes 2 days a week, but if I’m feeling particularly anxious, I’ll meditate for longer.
Recommended Products for Yoga and Meditation – Sage and Lululemon
While you don’t need any special equipment to practice yoga or meditation, I recommend a few products. For yoga, I love using a good-quality yoga mat. My favourite is the Lululemon Reversible Mat. It’s thick and cushiony, which makes it comfortable to practice on. It also has a non-slip surface, so you don’t have to worry about slipping and sliding during practice.
I love using Sage Natural Wellness products, especially its diffuser blends and essential oil roll-ons (read this article if you haven’t heard of essential oils before). My favourite diffuser blend from Saje for meditation or yoga practices is Unwind blend and Yoga blend. I also highly recommend their Pocket Pharmacy Mindful Edition for my yoga and meditation routine!
I like to use them before I meditate to help me clear my mind and create a peaceful atmosphere. I also love using a good-quality meditation cushion. My favourite is the alo Meditation Cushion. It’s comfortable and supportive, making it easier to sit for extended periods.
Tips for Starting Your Transformation Journey with Yoga and Meditation
If you’re thinking about starting your own yoga and meditation practice, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Start small. You don’t have to practice for hours each day. Start with a few minutes of yoga or meditation daily and work your way up.
- Find a style that works for you. There are countless styles of yoga and meditation, so find one that resonates with you.
- Be consistent. Consistency is critical when it comes to yoga and meditation. Try to practice every day, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
- Be patient. Yoga and meditation are practices that require patience and dedication. Don’t expect to see results overnight.
- Be kind to yourself. Yoga and meditation are about self-improvement, not perfection. Be kind to yourself, and don’t compare yourself to others.
Conclusion -The Ongoing Journey Towards Self-Improvement and Growth
My journey with yoga and meditation has been a transformative one. These practices have helped me manage my physical balance, stress, and overthinking. In addition, it has taught me to be more present and compassionate. While I still have a long way to go, I’m grateful for my progress.
If you’re considering starting your own yoga and meditation practice, I encourage you to try it. These practices can transform your life, just as they have transformed mine. Remember to be patient, be kind to yourself, and enjoy the journey!
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