We women are funny creatures. And by funny I mean complicated and irrational. Like when we think that all that stands between us and Samadhi (pure bliss) is ten pounds and a perky yoga butt.

The good news is you can lose weight and tone your whole body by doing yoga, and it’s an excellent reason for getting started. You can also do yoga to show off the new Lululemon gear you got for Christmas, or because Doctor Oz said it would help lower your stress levels, or because you think the instructor is cute. In fact, any reason you can think of at all for doing yoga is a good one, because the hardest part is making the commitment and showing up.

But then something else happens…

Picture being in a heated room, heart pounding, sweat dripping, as you hold a deep, thigh burning lunge in warrior I pose, “for 5….. 4….. 3…..”. The voice of the teacher fades off, and all at once a deep sense of calm washes through your body as you softly focus on your own gaze in the mirror, while listening to the steady rhythm of your breath. You feel strong, grounded, powerful and beautiful. Your mind goes quiet, and you see yourself as more than the sum of your parts. You are more than just a mother, a wife, a career woman, and a butt (no matter what it looks like).

This feeling of wholeness is what sets yoga apart from other forms of exercise. After all, the word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root “yuj”, meaning “to yolk” or “to unite”. The fit, toned body, new found flexibility, and the compliments on your outfit are simply the side effects.

At HappyTree you can choose not only Hot Yoga, but other forms of yoga, to help you with your New Year’s resolutions. In fact, if you say you read this article, your first class will be on us: another good reason to get started! Call HappyTree today 514-846-YOGA (9642).