Saturday, January 14, 2012

Yoga is becoming an exercise in futility

I signed up for an eight week Yoga class that meets at 7:30 am on Saturday was the 2nd class. I am really trying to have an open mind about this. The first class went really well I felt. I had some trouble with some of the poses, but was able to modify. Today was a different story. I got so frustrated in one part. There is a chunk of yoga where you are on your hands and knees. I have arthritis in both of my knees, with my right being worse than my left.  Because of this I have a really hard time kneeling. I can kneel on both for a short period of time, but I am unable to kneel just on my right knee without PAIN. Today the instructor had us do the hand and knee balance (you can see the move here) and this is where I just started to get frustrated. I did try since we have the mat and we are on a padded floor. I slowly raised my right arm and left leg, and then quickly put it back down. The right knee was having none of it. I was able to slightly do the move on the other side but the left knee was not very happy. Another pose that 'should' be easy is child's pose and I never feel comfortable or that I am getting a good stretch. I think I may have to research and see what other modifications I can do if I am going to finish out this class.

Any suggestions or ideas?? I would love to hear from you! 

3 comments:

  1. I have two thoughts. First, double up the mats (which is what I always do) or buy yourself and extra thick mat. You can find them online. This will help a bit, but may not be enough.

    My other idea is to drop this class and look for chair yoga in your area. I tried this twice on my recent spa trip and loved it. My mom won't try yoga because of her knees but she loved it too. We found a class in our town but it is a bit of a hike so we haven't checked it out yet.

    I forgot to add - talk to your instructor and see what she suggests. She might have some modifications that will work.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you for the ideas. I have not been able to find any chair yoga in the area. I am thinking about doubling up on the mats.

      I just read your post about yoga. One reason that I think I might stick this class out is because I love the teacher. I will definitely ask her for some more modifications and ideas.

      Delete
  2. Yoga has many health advantages.Its make our body stretchable.Its such stress relief process.Yoga is helpful in decrease the body weight and its reduce the risk of disease.Yoga is a good way of giving mind, relaxation and freshness.
    Health club redwood city

    ReplyDelete