I have done hundreds of Bodyflow classes at this point in my life but last week was the most challenging one yet. Not because there was a complicated new release or I struggled with the choreography but simply because I could not relax. To my horror, there was a spider on a web right on top of me the entire duration of the class.
Let me break it down for you. Bodyflow is a one-hour fitness class that blends tai chi, yoga and pilates to modern music. It is my favourite workout and has really changed my body, mind and life perspective. It’s something I try to do every day either in a formal class, virtually or at home on my own. I am such a big advocate for this class I actually sound like an infomercial host when plugging it to my friends. But I’m not sorry for it because it is that good.
Before I started Bodyflow and going to the gym, I was one of those tomorrow people. Tomorrow I will exercise, start my diet and focus on me…just not today. Except tomorrow was figurative and never actually arrived. Until I quit my job and made a conscious change and I haven’t looked back since.
I remember my first release, as I am sure every avid bodyflower does. It was 76, still one I am fond of. Erin welcomed me to class with a smile and words of encouragement. I was excited and hoped I could get through the class. Let me tell you, all the yoga I had done in the past didn’t quite prepare me for the intensity of bodyflow. Some people downplay it but if you are doing the poses correctly, there is a lot of work involved. Anyway, at the mid-point of class is the pilates ab work and Justin Timberlake’s Can’t stop the feeling blared and I felt like I was going to die. But I did what I could and got through the rest of the routine.
That is the beauty of bodyflow, you can make it your own and make it as easy or as challenging as you want to. It is your workout. Every Goodlife studio, teacher and routine are different but in a positive way that allows you to grow into your own practice. You also meet the nicest people along the way who support your fitness journey.
These were just some of the thoughts that flowed through my unrelaxed mind as the spider pranced above me during meditation last week. While I absolutely failed at calming my mind that night, I did connect to why I love this practice so much in the first place. I hope one day somehow between school, work, kids and life, I can become a certified teacher for this class I adore so much.
Namaste.
Janis Li 