Class 11 was just what I needed.  I had spent the whole day whining and complaining to anyone who would listen to me about how much I wanted to be done with this class.  But I knew I wasn't going to give up.  And really, I dont want to give up.  I want it to be easier and I want to see instant results.  What can I say, I am a true American.

Last night's class was a new experience for me.  I got there later than I normally do, so I had to take the spot right up front since it was all that was left.  On my first day they explained that the more experienced people go to the front and the new people should be in the back.  That way, you can look at the people in front of you in case you need to see how the pose should look.  So, I have always picked a spot in the back.  Until last night.  The front wall of the room is all mirrors, so being in the front row meant I was right in front of the mirror.  Not only could I see this giant image of myself staring back at me, but everyone else could too.  I was highly self-conscious and thought to myself how I would really try not to be there that close to class starting ever again.

But what I actually found in this class was that being that close to the mirror really forced me to notice everything.  I was even more focused on myself and my postures and my breath than ever before.  So, maybe being highly self-conscious translated to highly self-aware and maybe that was a good thing.  I actually enjoyed this class.  I noticed the small improvements and realized how much I had been focused on the difficult poses and not the ones that I had really gotten better at.  I mean in the big picture, 11 days is not very long, so to see improvements is a really cool thing.

Now, truth be known, I know a big aspect of my motivation was knowing that people could see me better in that spot.  So, I was really focused on trying to do each pose the best I possibly could.  This plays right into my competitive spirit which is really not what yoga is all about.  But, hey it gets me through the class!

So, today, I feel good.  Still sore as can be, but it's good.  And I am looking forward to class tonight.  But I know that days like 9 and 10 will come again and you all will be subjected to my whining and complaining.