Upon my arrival here at UD, me and my best friend from home struggle to adjust like many other freshman. We had a couple days to spare before the commencement of the very first class of the semester, and we were trying to find something to fill the time as we awaited anxiously. Luckily, with all the student involvement events going on around move in day, activities around campus were not scarce.

To be quite honest none of the events we saw listed were particularly eye-catching. At least that’s what we thought until we saw yoga listed. Immediately we were interested, and planned to head to Christiana Commons at 7pm for our first yoga session.

Upon arrival we were the only ones in the building. We wondered if we were in the wrong place. We just about turned the corner to leave when a brown haired, lean, curly headed women came rushing towards us. “Are you guys here for yoga?” she asked in an excited tone. I was taken aback by her quirkiness, and her long sunflower earrings and yellow dress with striped leggings underneath caught my eye. We said yes, and she ushered us into a dimly lit room, where we were given brand new yoga mats.

Within the next few minutes a couple more girls arrived. Maybe 6 or 7. We stood there awkwardly in a circle until she summoned us to lay our mats down on the ground.

The next hour long session was enlightening. The mind body connection was refreshing, although I struggled to exhibit it on the same level as our instructor. Her voice soothing and calm, she guided us through every motion, reminding us to clear our mind and focus on breathing. I was quite shocked when she announced to us our time was drawing to a close. I walked out, feeling as though I was on a cloud. It was at that moment I realized I really enjoyed yoga, and want to connect with myself on that level more often.

My roommate and I still try to attend classes as much as possible. With the stress of everyday life, it is really helpful for me to step back, almost out of my body. Yoga offers a sense of calmness and inner peace that is hard to capture in everyday life. Whether it is a weekly class or a few moments alone on the floor of my dorm room, I make it a priority to take a moment to adjust spiritually.