Yoga is something we could all stand to do more often; the benefits are countless. Truth be told, I was not always a fan of yoga. I was one of those “yogis” who would look at the clock every two minutes wondering when it would end. Rarely did I ever make it thru shavasana. Bad yogi.

Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate yoga more and more…and a lot more. The sole benefit of stretching the body, aiding tight muscles, and countering high-impact workouts is reason enough to incorporate yoga into any routine.I learned to like yoga for the physical benefits, but I didn’t grasp the peace of mind part…yet.

When I moved to the Hamptons, I experienced that shift  My body, mind, and soul became open to the vast benefits of yoga, outside of just sore muscles. The physical stretching became the base level for further opening of the mind. We’re blessed to have so many amazing local yoga studios, a variety of classes, and gifted instructors. Maybe there’s something in the air here, but I finally learned to slow my breath, open my heart, and absorb yoga into my life. I not only sat thru shavasana, I learned to reap the benefits of sun salutations and meditation as well.

Just recently, I’ve actually gotten to the point of looking forward to going to yoga. Planning “yoga dates” with my girlfriends has become a regular occurrence. All of the sudden, my yoga mats have duplicated – one upstairs, one downstairs, one in my car…what’s happening?

I think I’m finally becoming a yogi. I’m no master, my flexibility is minimal and my balance is shaky, but I now place a high value on yoga in my day-to-day life…because I want to. Yoga is now a priority for my mind, body, and soul. And I highly recommend it to anyone who…I’ll stop there because I highly recommend yoga to anyone. I’ve learned that anyone can be a yogi and everyone should be, just unroll the mat and give it a try. Now. Seriously, move away from the computer and do a few sun salutations or just breathe deep in downward dog. You’ll thank me later.

One Healthy Breakdown: Rock on, yogis. You were right all along. Namaste.