Reid Gilbert had a passing interest in yoga, trying a few classes at gyms over the years. But when he found himself between jobs a few years ago, he dabbled with practicing on his own using a manual.
“Once I realized that was a ridiculous idea, I sought out a studio,” he said.
Thanks to friends and family members, he knew that yoga held positive benefits. And thanks to friends, he was familiar with Sterling Hot Yoga & Wellness.
“I decided that sweating through a yoga class would be an interesting workout,” Reid said. And two-and-a-half years later, he’s still committed, and the changes he’s experienced keep him coming back.
“It’s pretty simple:I always feel great after yoga practice, and the benefits are cumulative, so it’s been easy to integrate into my life,” he said. “I also love the daily challenges and discoveries that come with a consistent practice.”
Some of the positive changes Reid has experienced through a consistent yoga practice are keeping physically fit, improving his diet and sleeping better.
“Most importantly, practicing 26/2 taught me how to properly breathe,” he said. “My anxiety and stress levels are lower than ever, and I attribute that to simply being mindful about my breathing patterns.”
Reid said he’s surprised at how easy it was to make healthy choices as a byproduct of his practice. “It’s not nearly as difficult as I thought it would be,” he said.
His thoughts after the first class were definitely different though. Reid said his first thought was, “‘What in the hell just happened?’ And then I came back the next morning!”
He credited Sterling’s welcoming and supporting environment as encouragement for new students to come in an practice. “If you have even the slightest interest in yoga, show up and take a class,” he said. “It will be rewarding!”
His advice to first-time students?
“Are you interested in improving your health, cultivating better focus, or becoming more self-aware? That’s what you’ll gain from yoga,” Reid said. “It makes no difference how flexible you are, or what your fitness level is. There are no requirements other than being open-minded about the experience.”
Are you ready to see what a consistent yoga practice can do for you? Sign up for our new member special, $30 for 30 days of unlimited practice, and experience the benefits for yourself!
