This past week I experienced Yoga for the first time as a means of looking for a way to increase my Chi. According to my Integrative Medicine physician, finding my “Chi” is an integral part of living optimally well.

“Chi refers to the natural energy of the Universe, which permeates everything. It is the vital force of life. It is the power which enables us to think, move, breathe, and live. It is the link between our perception of the inner and outer worlds. It is our connection to the very flow of the universe and the prime moving force within the human body. Chi is not breath; it is the power that makes it possible for us to breathe. Chi is not simply "energy," it is what gives energy the power to be energy. Chi is the power behind movement and thought…and it is everywhere.”- Aaron Hoopes http://www.thebuddhagarden.com/breathing-chi.htm

By definition, Yoga is a Hindu discipline aimed at training the consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility.  Sounds like a perfect way to seek out my Chi.  However, being that I am one of the least flexible people on the planet, I assumed Yoga was not for me. I assumed incorrectly.

Taking a Level I introductory class to Yoga allowed me to experience serenity, clarity and awareness at heightened levels without twisting myself into a pretzel. The poses were challenging yet doable and the focus on my breath forced my brain to focus inwardly, disregarding the outside world. I could feel my blood flowing through my veins as well as the strength of my pulse increase.  A feeling of warmth came over me (and, no, it wasn’t a hot flash).  What was even more amazing was my ability to maintain this heightened level of awareness throughout the remainder of my day. Sounds, smells and sights seemed intensified affording me maximum enjoyment of my surroundings. And, yes, my “Chi” seemed vibrant with my increased awareness of my internal energy.

For those of you who have never experienced Yoga, I highly recommend it. Seek out a beginning-level class so as not to feel intimidated. If you don’t like it the first time, try it again with a different instructor. I learned each has a specific style that may or may not resonate with you. Once you try it, let me know your thoughts.

Namaste