I just returned from a delightful family vacation in Arizona, and something caught my attention at the resort's fitness center that I can't wait to share with you.

Each morning, from December 29 to January 1, I had the fitness center all to myself. I relished a 20-minute treadmill walk followed by 40-50 minutes of blissful yoga on my mat, soaking in my favorite yoga tunes. However, on January 2, the scene transformed, with the place bustling and barely enough room for my yoga mat.

Observing my fellow exercisers after my long hiatus from gym environments, I was struck by a stark realization. Most seemed devoid of joy, struggling with weights that were too heavy and settings on the machines that put the machine, not the person, in control. They looked like they were suffering. I even witnessed a seemingly fit woman gasping for air, folded over a treadmill with a dumbbell in hand.

In contrast, there I was, sporting a constant smile. I embraced my practice with a connection to breath, mindful movement, and a keen awareness of my body's needs. Achieving that sweet spot between effort and ease, I underwent a holistic workout—full joint mobility, core (abs and back), arm and leg strengthening, followed by stretching—always mindful of posture and alignment.

I applaud the dedication of those in the fitness center, but the disconnection between their bodies and minds was palpable. It's not about weights or machines - it's about stress. If their fitness journey was filled with joy instead of guilt, they'd be regulars, radiating happiness.

Stress triggers hormonal responses impacting metabolism, fat storage and increasing inflammation. A fitness routine causing stress doesn't serve us well!

Is there a better way to achieve fitness goals, prioritizing joy over stress?

Yoga, rooted in Ahimsa (non-harming), honors the body through mindfulness—a journey on and off the mat.

So, what's the ultimate stressbuster? Mindfulness, breath, and appropriate movement.

Welcome to the world of yoga!