My typical morning starts out the same … up at 5 a.m., work, write the blog, eat and workout … yesterday morning, I decided to go to the 6 a.m. yoga class.
Unfortunately, I left house with what I knew was not enough time to get there (without being late). I drove to the end of the block and couldn’t recall whether I had shut the garage door. So, I had to turn around and go back … of course, it was closed. Then, I got half-way to the health club and realized that I didn’t have my ID. I noticed that my daughter’s permit was in the car. I am already later than I want so I pray that they will let me be 15 years old for the next hour. This is not my best start.
Of course, I get there and the class is packed. I squeeze my mat in between two people … one woman’s feet in my face and some guy’s butt at my side. This is not feeling relaxing. I decide to dedicate my practice to my dad and get started.
About 15 minutes into the class the teacher starts telling us how rude it is for us to show up late and leave early. She is quite clearly talking to me. I am already sweating but now I’m not feeling in my zen mood. She also tells us that our practice reflects our life. If we are coming late and leaving early then our life is just as disjointed!
OK. Now, I’ve lost my focus. Sure, I get there late once in a while. Yes, I do have to leave early if it’s a day my daughter wants to be at school early but I leave before the meditation. Clearly, there are etiquette rules that I should follow (sorry to my yogi friends!) and I guess I’ll have to pay a bit more attention to the time. But I’m not used to getting reprimanded at 6:15 a.m. in front of a group of strangers!
I did apologize to the teacher as I walked out (more stressed out than when I started!) but it made me think … is this the best 6 a.m. workout choice for me? Maybe not — and maybe that’s the question that I’ll have to ask myself next time I get the smart idea to go to early yoga.
So instead, I’m off now with my headlamp and running shoes. Maybe my quick morning run will be a bit more relaxing!
Have a great day!
theyearof50 
I think that teacher is simply insulted by you not devoting enough time to HER. If you can devote any time at all to your health and well-being then good for you. I suggest you find a new class where the teacher appreciates your willingness to squeeze ANY time in for this sort of thing. There are many other people, myself included, who rarely ever do!
Ok, this struck a nerve, I used to teach at 6 am and I DISAGREE. Those that show up or leave early–at least they are there. Good for you for making it. It’s always a tough decision when there is too much going on!
I felt bad but she is right. I should get there on time or not go at all… What’s on your workout plan this weekend?