Hello everyone, I’m Hoxbar. I live in Southern Oklahoma, USA. I know very little about yoga. I want to learn yoga not just for the mental advantages but for the physical and spritual one as well. A friend of mine (Thomas) is from India. I’ve noticed an amazing change in Thomas over the last 3 years. He has lost over 50 lbs, high blood pressure and cholestrol are all down to normal levels. I was talking to him about the physical changes in him, I asked him what his secrets were. He told me that he walks at least 1 hour every day. He then said the realy secret is Yoga! He told me he grew up doing Yoga, but got away from it after moving to the USA. After about 30 years of an American lifestyle he was in bad health. His Indian mother-in-law, told him that he knew what he needed to do. THomas did just that, he started Yoga again and started walking everyday. Ever since our conversation I wanted to start Yoga. Thomas suggested I take a yoga class, and if I liked it he would show me some more traditional yoga. I tried to get some information on the Yoga classes in my area, but there are not for us middle class folks. The only people in the class are the “social elite” of this town. I even called and left a message for the owners to call me back. And since I’m not in their social class it appears I’m not wanted. So I’ve decided to learn what I can on my own. I’m going to Sedona, Arizona for vacation in June and I know I can get a real class everyday while I’m there. Any suggestions on how to start Yoga, other than a class?
Having a teacher is the best way. There are good DVD’s, Books, on-line information as well. Do some reading and ask questions to discover what flavor you like the best.
It sounds very odd that yoga teachers would discriminate based upon social class. I think maybe you should go to their studio before class starts (or after it let’s out) and discuss your desire to learn yoga. There may be some miscommunication going on.
Good luck,
Michael