The lights are dim; my hands are splayed wide in front of me on the floor.  My toes are placed five feet or so behind my hands and my legs are taut as I push my ass high in the air.  I arch my back, as if waiting to be mounted from behind.  I “wrap” my shoulders and draw my weight towards my heels.  This is downward dog – and it hurts. 

Downward dog, one of the first poses a new yogi learns, is a good indicator of one’s asana practice.  In the beginning, it hurts, you’re sore; you just want to get out of the pose.  Experienced yogis, on the flip side, find rest and relaxation there – it’s a break between the more vigorous asanas.

I used to find rest in down dog, but I’ve lost my way in my practice.  Yoga isn’t about “becoming fit” – I know that, but I’m a western yogi and fitness was a part of the reason I practiced.  I was strong, powerful, flexible and energized.  I had “yoga shoulders”, a strong back and firm groins.  

I loved the strength yoga gave me physically (not to mention mentally and spiritually) – how could I ever let that slide?  It took me years to build my yoga body – and now, I find myself starting all over.

I’m sore today.  Last night’s level 1-2 was difficult for me.  The same class a year ago would be any “easy” practice.  How could I let this happen?  I’m flabby and weak once again.  I want my yoga body back – and there’s only one way to do it…a strong, committed, consistent practice.  I hate myself for having to start all over again.