This blog is intended to help me chart my course. To help me find out what it is I want in life. And that often comes with a lot of stress about the future. I have found that one of the best ways for me personally to manage stress and to learn to express gratitude for my current life and accomplishments is through yoga. I have recently discovered Baptiste Power Yoga, and let’s just say I’m addicted. The feelings of physical strength, mental calm and the empowerment too good to not keep going back. Its an amazing 60-90 minutes of pure “me” time, during which I’m not only strengthening and toning my body, but also my mind. The first few weeks classes were tough as I built up my endurance, but I stuck with it and now truly reap the benefits of having done so. Check out my must-haves to be a successful yogi.
1 // Wunder Under Pant
These Lululemon pants are a must. The fit is just right to move with you and wick away sweat throughout the practice.
2 // Lightweight Tank
I like something loosely fitted and lightweight.
3 // Camelbak EDDY
Gotta have the Camelbak. This has been my favorite water bottle forever, and its easiest for taking a quick sip during an intense class. I know that wiping sweat and taking a sip of water is a subconscious way of getting out of a tough pose, but sometimes you just need it.
4 // Hand Towel
A good old-fashioned towel is really all you need to wipe up sweat. I also like to put a towel like this over my eyes during shavasana.
5 // The (Big) Towel
During really intense classes hands and feet can start to slip and slide all over the mat, as humidity in the room builds and sweat starts to drip. This microfiber towel from Lululemon is necessary to lay over your yoga mat to absorb that extra moisture and keep you from slipping.
6 // Yoga Block
I know the blocks at the studio are cleaned regularly, but I prefer to have my own. Plus, having it in my apartment is a great reminder to do some stretches and restorative poses on my own.
7 // Ultima Replenisher
When I first started my practice, an instructor gave me one of these when I was really struggling, and it made all the difference. It is so critical to stay hydrated before, during and after your yoga practice. Adding one of these electrolyte packets to your water a couple of hours beforehand can make all the difference without all the sugar of Gatorade.
8 // KIND Fruit & Nut Bars
Of course, it’s important not to eat right before your practice, but I like to make sure I have a decent amount of protein earlier in the day. The nuts in these bars make them a great snack to munch on a couple hours before your practice.
For those yogis out there, what helps make a successful practice for you? Let me know in the comments below!
