Long before I started working here, Vivisum posted a blog entitled “Skip Yoga Class and Get to Work.” I agree that approaching work as a yogic practice that helps us grow, rather than a soul-crushing burden, can certainly enable us to get more out of our careers. However, I would argue that practicing yoga on a regular basis can actually make it easier to accomplish this.

I have been practicing yoga on and off for about 4 years. I initially started doing yoga as a form of exercise that would allow me to become stronger, more flexible, and ease my scoliosis pain. It eventually developed into a regular practice that I use to maintain my mental and physical health.

Recently, I have begun to practice yoga on a daily basis once again. Now, I honestly can’t help but wonder how I ever lived without a daily practice. The practice of yoga can be relaxing, yes, but it can also help one build physical and spiritual muscles that serve in all aspects of life. When I am in goddess pose, for instance, sweat dripping down my face, I can recognize that it is challenging, but that the desire to quit is all in my mind. It’s difficult, but I know that pushing myself like this will help me to become stronger.

When I practice yoga, I get a physical and mental workout – I am flexing my physical as well as my mindfulness muscles. Once I am able to regularly recognize that I can handle challenging asanas, I realize that I am also strong enough to handle challenging personal and professional projects.

I can recognize that yoga is a state of mind. If I can be disciplined enough to get on my mat every day and complete a 20-90 minute practice, there’s nothing I can’t do. I am stronger, both physically and mentally, because of the practice of yoga. So, I would argue that you shouldn’t skip yoga class. Instead, bring the strength and mindfulness that you cultivate in your yoga practice to work with you.