I never believed in making New Year’s resolutions. I felt it was a cruel and unnecessary practice, designed to make us feel even worse about the lack of time or money we have to achieve our goals. Then last holiday season, I read an article that said the best resolutions (and the easiest ones to keep) are those that focus on the process, and not simply the end result. Taking this advice into consideration, I made my first New Year’s resolution in 2010.
For as long as I could remember, I was a victim to my restless mind – obsessive working, organizing and cleaning took precedence over much-needed “me” time. But simply promising to spend less time doing those activities would be painful and ineffective. A friend recommended I take a yoga class. She said scheduling in relaxation time would force me to unwind (and appeal to my Type-A personality).
So last New Year’s Eve, I resolved to attend a weekly yoga class. After trying out studios for a month, I found a home at Gurukul Yoga Holistic Center in Bridgewater where my restless mind was no match for its yoga sessions. I nearly fell asleep during my first class. Each week, my instructors Prashant and Manju Joshi taught me how to breathe properly and take care of my body by doing simple exercises. I was easing my restless mind along with improving my circulation, immune system and flexibility – and I was enjoying the process. And almost a year later, I still am.
When you make your New Year’s resolutions this year, be sure to keep the process in mind. If you want to lose 10 pounds, but you hate running, don’t vow to spend more time on the treadmill, commit to taking Zumba classes instead. And if it’s a restless mind you’re ready to restrain, check out this directory of New Jersey yoga studios.