With another challenge completed, I decided to ask some of our challengers to share their 30 day experience with our community. Read on to learn what the experience was like and how they worked through it.

Did you reach your challenge goal? 

Before the challenge started, I set myself a goal of completing 75% of the 30 practices and I did reach that goal! What I’ve learnt from participating in previous challenges is to set yourself a goal that is specific, attainable and realistic for you, especially given the time of year and duration of the challenge.

Did you set an intention? If so, what was it? 

My intention was to listen to the way my body was feeling. I’ve been slowing learning to find balance between my yoga practice and other physical activities. I kept this intention by being mindful of the class styles I’d take. I’ve really made an effort do a yin-style practice 2-3 times a week at the studio, or even doing some deeper stretches before bedtime at home.

How did you keep yourself motivated throughout the challenge?

I kept myself motivated by booking my classes ahead of time as well as setting reminders in my calendar! I always look forward to a trip to the studio and the heat is definitely  best part during the winter. I also think the visual of putting up a sticker really helps to see your progress. During this challenge, there was also an intention that corresponded to each day. I liked to work these new intentions into my practice — allowing me to give attention to some areas of my body, breathing or even in my mind that I typically wouldn’t have.

What did you learn throughout this process?

Different lifestyles don’t allow everyone to show up at the studio everyday, and that is okay! I’ve learnt to appreciate how much effort it may take to get to the studio, especially on some cold November nights. I think setting a personal goal makes me work time into my schedule towards achieving the goal. It also feels great to recognize the steps you take in the process, with or without a sticker chart!

What did you find most challenging? How did you work through it?

For me, I think the most challenging part of the 30 day challenge was not always being able to make it to the studio. I initially started off a bit behind at the start of the month, but I took it as an opportunity to work on my home practice as well. I saw a quote that read: “You can do anything, but not everything”, and it’s helped me keep my intention and challenge goal on top of managing my busy life as a student.

Any words of advice or reflection for fellow challengers?

I think it is always great to see so many familiar faces as well as new faces around the studio. We have such an amazing community at MYTB, and I’m happy to see it grow! It makes me so happy to see the hot room packed, the energy and heat is unbeatable! There is truly something special in this practice. Namaste.