The benefits of yoga speak for themselves. From reducing stress, to getting fit, to socialization, there are tons of reasons to get into a daily yoga routine. Most importantly, yoga can get you through some really tough times, such as moving to a new city, switching careers, or even starting a family. Whether you’re taking an online yoga course, or you’re joining a class at your local studio, you should always make time for your yoga routine during particularly stressful or dynamic times. If you relate, here are some major life transitions along with how to make yoga fit into those changes in order to effectively manage stress.
Moving to a New City
Relocating is a lengthy and stressful process– one that consists of a number of steps. Searching for homes, doing walkthroughs, and making offers can be time-consuming. Even before searching for homes, you may feel the stress stemming from finances and processes you’ve never gone through before. You’re likely going to spend a bulk of your life savings, plus you need to learn how to get preapproved for a mortgage, close on a home, and create a moving checklist, all of which can be tiring.
When you’re overwhelmed by the home buying and moving processes, take a step back and make time for your yoga routine. Schedule home tours in the evenings, so you can start your day with a morning yoga session. This can give you a clear mind and a fresh set of eyes for your transition. As you’re packing and unpacking throughout the move, try to leave at least one day of the week for relaxation. Also, don’t forget to utilize online yoga classes, as you can take them from anywhere and at any time of the day, making time for everything you need to accomplish.
Changing Careers
Many people who relocate to a new city do so because of a career transition. Like moving, a new job comes with a lot of uncertainties. You’re going to be working with all new people, performing a different job, and even receiving a new salary and benefits. You had a routine at your old job that you have to adjust from once you accept a new position in terms of schedule, commuting, and fitness. All of these changes and unpredictability can weigh on your body and mind, which is where yoga can come into play.
Get the hang of your new work schedule to find the best time for yoga so that you can tackle your new duties as the best version of yourself. Familiarize yourself with your new employer’s flexible schedule terms, and most importantly, check in to see if they have any fitness benefits that could make your yoga practice more affordable or attainable. Finally, network with your new peers to find people with similar yoga interests or advanced yogis who will enjoy the activity with you and help you adjust to your new lifestyle.
Starting a Family
It’s no secret that making the decision to start a family, on top of going through the journey, can be an exhilarating, yet taxing time. There are several different ways to start a family that all come with their own unique set of challenges. Whether you’re adopting a child, taking advantage of surrogacy, or you’re pregnant with a baby yourself, yoga can help you through each step along the way, up until you’re raising kids.
Yoga can help pregnant women improve sleep, build muscles necessary for childbirth, reduce stress, and alleviate the most common symptoms of pregnancy, like back pain and headaches. Experts recommend being transparent with your instructor about your pregnancy so they can ensure you’re using the best yoga positions that won’t put a strain on your body. If you’re already raising kids, this can be the perfect activity to enjoy with your children for quality time and keeping everyone active.
No matter what stage of life you’re in, there’s a yoga routine or practice for you. Take advantage of online classes, find the right type of yoga for you, and embrace the practice so you can manage your stress and truly experience all that these life transitions have to offer. To get started, check out Yogacara’s schedule today.