Finding A New Routine

Last night I attended a prenatal yoga class. This was the first time I had done yoga since April, and I was a bit nervous. As some of you may remember, I became interested in this practice earlier this year. It was part of my New Year’s Resolution of making time for me and finding balance in my life.

Entering the studio was intimidating for me. I wanted to be a rock-star. I wanted to be able to do every pose my peers were doing, and leave the class feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Yet knowing it had been seven months since I had done a downward-facing dog, tree or warrior pose caused me anxiety.

Thankfully, the instructor was kind and comforting. She emphasized that each of us were on different journeys, and therefore, we had to go at our pace. In her mind, prenatal yoga is just as much about listening to your body signals as it is about connecting with your baby and learning to move in comfortable ways.

I quickly felt at ease within the group. There were movements I could not fully complete, but that was fine with me. I trusted that my body knew best. I breathed and allowed myself to let go of judgment. I was present in the moment, and it felt good.  

I left yoga feeling calm, collected and centered. With such a positive response, I have decided to add this practice to my weekly routine. One night a week, I will do this for me. This will be my time to bond with baby and reconnect with myself.

My wish is for each of you to find that one activity that makes you feel whole and unstoppable. I think it is so important that we take care of ourselves and do things that create inner-harmony and peace. Have a good night!

Believing in Miracles,

Nicole Hemmenway

            Author of “No, It Is NOT In My Head: The Journey of a Chronic Pain Survivor from Wheelchair to Marathon”