Have you ever felt so wound-up and stressed-out that you just didn’t know what to do with yourself? Given the economy and state of world affairs, I’m finding more and more folks are on the edge these days, so I’m going to offer up a solution to chill you right on out: Go take a Yoga class. Honestly, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself, and all my other stressed out friends and family members who have followed my lead, agree. You’re probably thinking Wow! That’s pretty enlightened of Kim to be doing yoga, but I must admit, years ago when my friend Teri first suggested I join her for a yoga class, I was a bit skeptical…Alright, I was more than skeptical, I was ignorant…No, I was beyond ignorant, I was “ig’nant.” I think my response was, “Yoga? Ain’t that devil worship?” Don’t those people sit around twisted up like a pretzel, chanting and making secret pacts with Lucifer?” Uh-uh, count me out! I’m a God-fearing woman, and besides I’m not that flexible; I can’t even bend over to touch my toes without throwing out my lower back and squealing like a pig.” Thankfully, my friend was persistent, and I was inspired by a certain quality of stillness and calm she exhibited, which she always attributed to her yoga practice, so I relented and gave it a whirl. And I’m so happy I did. I walked into what turned out to be an oasis of peace. Rather than being encouraged to compete with more flexible members of the class, I was encouraged to listen to my own body and go only as far as it wanted me to go. Now that was a novel concept for a girl who was used to slinging all sorts of weights around at the gym with the “no pain, no gain” mentality; not paying attention to anything until after I was injured. I loved the idea of tuning in to what my body (and mind) really needed — deep, mindful breathing, gentle stretching, gradual opening, and lubricating all my joints and organs with oxygen rich blood–all of which Yoga provides. Frankly, I wasn’t comfortable with the three “om’s” we were asked to chant at the beginning and end of class, so I just kept my mouth shut (Satan’s not getting me, I thought). There was one obnoxious girl beside me who took great pleasure in holding the “om” longer than anybody else in the class. I couldn’t quite figure out what her deal was. That aside, I left class feeling lighter, happier, de-stressed and more connected to humanity than I had ever felt before. Quite simply– it was magic and I wanted more. So I began a practice of doing Yoga two or three times a week, and over the years my sense of inner-peace, joy of being, and connectedness to the world has grown tremendously. I’m far more flexible than I’ve ever been; my body is toned, but more importantly, my mind is still and much less reactive to the negative things I encounter in life. Oh, and along the way I discovered that “om” is nothing more than a primordial sound that helps to center you and open your heart to giving and receiving love. I’m no longer afraid to chant it. As a matter of fact, I’ve turned into the obnoxious girl holding the “om” just a bit longer than anyone else.
Excellent Blog Kim!! Yes, if Only everyone could see that Yoga provides far more than flexibility. Love all your blogs. I cannot wait to read the next one…But you know what they say about Yogis It Takes One To Know One
Thank you for sharing your experience Kim. Me, myself, can very much relate to what you stated about going to the gym “no pain, no gain” attitude towards working out. I guess I got that from my dad who used to be a professional body builder back in the day! I always did find, however that when I stretched before and after workouts something about the stretching and breathing was really calming to the mind and body. About 5 years ago i tried Yoga and i loved it. I still switch it up every now and then, cause it’s easy for me to get numb to the same routines. I’ve never went to an actual yoga class though. Always did it at home. I now watch Steve Ross on the Oxygen channel in the mornings to get my mind and body elevated from the worries of yesterday. he’s pretty good and the show is for an hour. Hotha yoga ( i think i spelled that right) is what he practices. It can be pretty intense without the loud “ums” LOL!
I’m sorry i sometimes go on. =)
But I am glad to see more african americans embrace the practice and idea of meditation and yoga. WE need, as everybody needs, to be able to channel the inner body and connect it with the mind and outer being in order to achieve balance and health in our lives. I wish you success in your endeavors Kim! Keep it up and thanks again for sharing in your blog!
your twitter friend nahsal73
Since I’m on vacation, I think I’ll try a class. I have been stressed a little bit lately. I need to relax and I think a massage is not enough. Thanks for the suggestion Kim.
Love it!! I was cracking up, because that is exactly how I was. I love love love Yoga now! I haven’t been to a class in a while, however still remember how wonderful I feel after Yoga. Thanks for the reminder!
Hi Kim! Love your website and blog, and the article!, I love yoga , even though I’m a trainer I don’t believe in “no pain no gain” I don’t like pain, and we were just talking about it w/ Dayle today….anyways, I just sent you an e-mail and it failed…so probably I got the wrong address, mine is panteravivaz_1@hotmail.com, send me a note so I can forward the info.
Great seeing you today !
Patty
Yoga is a good thing and I, too, plan on revisiting it when I’m finished recovering, which should be in a couple months (or so). Being centered and stressless is an attainable goal. Kimmy, you radiate a peaceful spirit, even despite the mayhem and foolishness that abounds and surrounds most of us. Keep doin’ the damn thang, Chica.
BTW, very well written and funny blog.
Know God Know Peace…No God No Peace.
I love yoga! I started practicing about ten years ago, but have sense lost my discipline and gotten lazy(about many other things too!). Yoga cleared my mind and allowed me to experience my life at the moment I was living in – not worried about the past, or stressing about the future – just being right there. I am just returning to it and feel excited every day to give myself, my soul, my mind some peace and quiet.
It’s nice hearing your view on Yoga.For I am the “ignant” person when it comes to trying yoga out.My reason for not joining yoga is because I’m so on edge I believe yoga will just drive me even more crazy with all the sitting and stretching.But from hearing your story it does seem to be a helpful tool in releasing a lot of tension and focusing on relaxing and just being able to breathe without vains popping out of my neck and feeling that I must do vigorous excercise to get rid of some of that tension. Excersise is great! But to find other ways to relax such as yoga and keeping an open mind about all possible activities to increase relaxation is even better.Thanks for the insight Kim.
Hey Kimmie – finally got my butt back on facebook;) I sooo agree – for years dancing was my moving meditation and I always fell asleep when I tried to find inner quiet by meditating. Now Kundalini is my oasis – Everyone should try yoga – it stimulates deep healing and growth and complements whatever path you’re on – even if you don’t consider yourself a spiritual person your body, mind and spirit benefit. There are lots of depleting stressors — or shall I say opportunities to learn (!) in my life — but as long as I get to yoga I get filled back up. And ladies, you don’t have to be skinny — thanks to yoga my post 3 csection kangaroo pouch is smaller – but I’ve got ample boobs & butt! yoga is for every body.
Hey Kim, Diane, here, from Wes U.
Just wanted to let you know how much I LOVED your play. Your show made me laugh, cry, and exult at your wonderful truly inspiring journey. It needs to go to Broadway, and even though I liked the intimacy of a small venue, the story would be great on film to reach a wider audience. So many women, and especially young girls need to see your evolution and the self-acceptance and self-love that you showed so wonderfully. So many of our young African-American girls need to see and know their power and not to feel that its somehow related to their “booty” or the material things they possess. I’d like to know when you’re going to be in the NY area again–I’d love to invite my friends and family to see it.
By the way, it also reminded me how much I do like yoga. I remember leaving class feeling like I was floating–never get that feeling from working out.
Good luck and best wishes. See you on Broadway!
Diane,
Thanks for the beautiful sentiments about my play. It was so great to see you after all these years. I’ve thought of you often–always with love, fond memories and good wishes for your happiness and well-being. I’m going to keep telling this tale until spirit conspires to push it on the Broadway stage! I will definitely let you know when I do it again in New York. Let’s get together, break bread and catch up on our lives then.
Ina,
Welcome back to Facebook! Good point about volumptous women and yoga. So please, those who are blessed with some flesh, be sure to give it a try.
Ina,
I sure butchered the spelling of “voluptuous.” Next time, I’ll spell-check first:)!
Tanya,
You were almost right– it’s “Hatha”:). Like you, I want to see more African-Americans experience the gifts and benefits of a yoga practice. So keep spreading the word within the community, and I’ll do the same.
Patti,
Thanks! Glad you love the blogs. I tried writing you at your email address, but it came right back to me. I guess you’ll have to give me the information next time we see each other at the gym.
Kim, My daughter and I started yoga classes last spring. We love it. It is so relaxing and gets you in shape. I love the breathing and the meditation. Our favorite is the cool down at the end of class. You can literally fall asleep. I was skeptical about that om stuff too, but it does work. When my kids would be streessing or stressing me I have always said “feel the chi”, half goofing, half for real. They would always say Ma, you’re bugged. At least now my daughter, Nina Lynne realizes it is a for real thing. If only I could get my boys to see what we have learned.
This I don’t get. How can stretching be alleviating? Is it because the pain numbs you and leaves you tired and happy when it’s over?
Hi Kim, love this article on Yoga. I’ve been practicing for almost 4 yrs now and have never been able to articulate to folks what it really does for your mind, body and spirit. It’s so much more than “stretching”, it’s a wholistic approach to connecting mind, body and soul, other perks are a toned and flexible body.
I go 3- 4 times a week and like you, have never felt more inner-peace, joy, and connected to the world and others. It’s my “me” time. With 2 kids a husband and a busy schedule, it helps keep me centered and focused in the moment.
Say hi to Angie for me.
Frank – try it you’ll fall in love!!
Namaste!
I didn’t realize how old the post was until I read the date, but better late than never on this one. I really enjoyed this post and I am glad that I’ve subscribed to your blog.
Kim hi okay?
I hope you answer me, you’ve got mail??
I’ma huge fan of you and your brothers Wayans, especially’m a fan of Damon Wayans, congratulations for producing the sitcom My Wife and Kids, as you already know I’m from Brazil and do not speak English, live in São Paulo and have a dream of one day know this whole family of comedians who are you, I do not know how to thank you, you are a beast you are very funny.
One day I hope to meet you.
Kim send a hug to your whole family from Elvira Wayans until Keen Ivory Wayans.
In living Collor congratulations!
my email is ulisses.porco@hotmail.com