Yoga

Hot Yoga 21-Challenge

by Millie Lee, MD |

Hot House Yoga 21-Challenge

So, Hot House Yoga studio challenged us to take 21 classes in the month of October.  The logic behind the number 21 is that it takes 21 days to create a habit, so why not create a good habit.

For those who successfully complete the challenge in Hampton Roads, Hot House Yoga will donate $10 to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation on his/her behalf. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s mission is to “Save the Bay.” The Chesapeake Bay’s 64,000-square-mile watershed covers parts of six states and is home to more than 17 million people. It is my beautiful backyard. From the rivers of Richmond to the beaches of Virginia Beach, all Hot House yogis directly affect the bay. For those who successfully complete the challenge in Richmond, Hot House Yoga will donate $10 to the The Faison School for Autism on his/her behalf. The school is dedicated to providing resources for children with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Autism is the fastest growing developmental disability in the nation, affecting one in 68 children. Both incredible causes.

I took on the challenge with initial skepticism, thinking, as so many of us did, that it would be very difficult to accomplish with my very busy schedule.  But I did it! In fact, I took 25 classes. The only days I didn’t practice in the studio were the days I was on call for work.

Lessons Learned:

  • Reorganize your priorities — It turns out I was not as busy as I thought I was, I just needed to change my priorities
  • Be flexible and open — This led me to amazing teachers I hadn’t experienced before and to Level 2 Vinyasa
  • Consistent, unwavering practice creates a good habit — I wanted to be in the studio and practice everyday.  When I wasn’t there, I practiced at home.
  • Don’t expect a miracle — My ego wanted my yoga poses to be perfect and my body to be pain-free after this challenge.  Letting go of my ego, letting go of expectations, I realize that the work continues and the benefits come from a consistent Habit
  • You can do anything you set your mind to — Honestly, anything

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Jai Ma

🙏🏼 Namaste, Your Yoga Doctor