We’ve all been there before. You’re halfway through your yoga class, sweating, panting, trying to keep up, and then watch everyone else pull through the moves (seemingly) effortlessly. They check everyone in the room. Yes, you’re the messiest, sweatiest, worst.
Maybe you’re new to yoga and find yourself in awkward downward dog or wobbly tree pose. Or maybe you’ve progressed to a more advanced class, but now find yourself the most graceful, flexible yogi you’ve ever met. You hit rock bottom again.
It’s not easy walking into a yoga class feeling like you’re the “worst” person in the room. While yoga is a highly personal practice, it can seem almost impossible not to compare yourself to others. At this point, you may be thinking about doing yoga yourself at home instead of going to classes. You might even consider giving up yoga altogether because you don’t feel like it’s right for you. Some may tense up and try harder, leading to injury and disappointment. All because of feeling like “not good enough” to be the worst person in your class, without realizing the enormous potential in that role.
That’s right, being the worst guy in your class has its perks. Yoga calls you to the mat, not just to find balance and stretch your body. It asks you to learn more about yourself, connect with your community and connect with the world. Your presence is already half the job, so give yourself a pep talk and enjoy being the worst in class!
back to basics
back to basics
Yoga starts with breathing, and you absolutely can. If you are having trouble keeping up with others in the class, focus on your breathing and try to do this critical part first.
Get revisions from your instructor and focus on really mastering the basics before jumping into more advanced poses in your yoga class. Mastering the basic yoga poses will not only make your yoga practice look great, but it will also prevent injuries and burnout from overexertion.
By becoming familiar with modifications from the start, you’ll develop a greater understanding of what your body can do comfortably and when you need to take a step back. This will benefit your yoga practice throughout your life, and you will have a more fulfilling relationship with yoga overall.
Fighting brings out what matters
Fighting brings out what matters
Who has time to worry about how their butt looks or whether their new yoga pants are stylish enough when all your focus is on mastering this tricky pose? A little struggle can be a good thing. We only grow when we struggle and accept challenges, and our minds and bodies benefit from these changes.
By taking a yoga class that challenges you, you become more aware and engaged in the present moment. If you focus on striking a pose or making a smooth transition, you’ll have fewer thoughts. Combat can help you focus and get rid of a stupid vanity or a monkey mind that keeps chattering.
turn your attention inward
turn your attention inward
While yoga is primarily an exercise that brings your focus inward, it’s easier said than done. Our eyes often wander to our neighbors, or even our reflection on the wall. We can jump to other thoughts about how we function or how we feel about our appearance.
If you’re the “worst” in the class, you don’t even have to worry about being perfect here. With no chance of being the most stylish in its class, you can focus on how your body feels and what you really need. Give your full attention to the moment-to-moment movements and sensations of your body. When you’re engrossed in a meeting, pay attention to the tense areas. You don’t have to worry about what your posture looks like, so your focus is on yourself and your own body. Let go of any external expectations you have of yourself and feel the freedom that comes with it.
learn from others
learn from others
If you find yourself looking around and comparing yourself to other students instead of judging yourself by others, see who you most admire. Has anyone transitioned through their chaturangas seamlessly or had amazing stability in their balancing poses? After class, take them aside and ask them what helped them the most when they first started practicing and what advice they have for you. Everyone has their own unique yoga journey, and everyone will have something to share. Plus, your compliment might brighten their day!
This is a great opportunity to get extra help from your teacher. Carefully fine-tune any variations or supportive touch they give you in the classroom and gain access to their expertise on how to improve your practice. Teachers are invaluable resources for yoga beginners, turn to them for personal help.
Let go of embarrassment and accept forgiveness
Let go of embarrassment and accept forgiveness
There’s no time to be embarrassed when you’re learning from a tough yoga class. Even if you realize your traffic isn’t keeping up with other traffic, don’t be ashamed. You have a rare opportunity to stop and let go of all expectations. You’ll finish the course and become a better yogi because you stand your ground and challenge yourself.
Being the worst student in your class is also a great opportunity for you to practice forgiveness. Instead of belittling yourself for tipping over in a balance position or not being flexible enough, stop forgiving your body and accept its current limitations. you will learn it