The start of your yoga journey

The hardest part is showing up, and you did it. You’re at the opening chapters of your own great yoga story. Take a moment to find a comfortable seat—whether in a chair or on the ground, choose whatever feels right for you in this moment.

Plant your feet firmly on the ground and feel the steady support of the earth beneath them. Rest your palms face up on your thighs, open and receptive. Settle a little deeper into your seat, but elongate your spine, sitting tall with dignity. Gently draw your shoulder blades toward one another, letting your shoulders drop down and away from your ears. Your body should feel relaxed and free of strain.

Let go of any tension in your face. Unclench your jaw, and place your tongue lightly between your front teeth. Inhale deeply to a count of three, filling your belly, ribs, and chest. Hold the breath for a moment at the top, then exhale slowly to a count of three, releasing the air from your chest, ribs, and belly. Repeat this cycle five times.

Now, imagine yourself standing before a mirror. Take a moment to observe. What do you notice? Are you smiling or frowning? Do you wave, or do you look away? Simply notice your reaction without judgment. Now, picture the best version of yourself reflected back at you. Has anything changed, or does the image remain the same? Just observe.

Repeat these affirmations to yourself:

• I am who I am.
• I am capable.
• I am strong.
• I am the master of my being.
• I can achieve any goal I set.
• I am me, and I love me.

You are uniquely you, and no one else can ever be you. You will never be perfect because perfection doesn’t exist. But you are exactly where you need to be. Honor who you are and where you are. Release judgment and comparison—others are not you, and your journey is yours alone.

Be grateful for choosing this path, for showing up for yourself when you did. This is your journey, your experience, your life. Take control—you’ve earned it. Thank yourself for this moment of self-care.

I thank you and honor you.

Namaste.

• Sadie Rock