Barb,

I think you should go for it and take a yoga class! The nice thing about yoga is that even though you are in a group setting in a class, everyone is working at their own level. There's different levels of each yoga pose. The goal is not to be a pretzel, but to work where you are at now. Plus, I think once you are in the yoga mindset or space, you are in a place of nonjudment and noncompetition (this is obviously supposed to happen off the mat too, but hey, we're all works in progress...).

I know for myself that once I get working, I do not notice what others in the class look like or what they're wearing or whether they can get into a pose easier than me. I become very focused and in-tune with my breathing and everything else is there, but I don't "think" about it or anyone else...if all goes well, I forget all of my problems from every day life too class LOL. When faced with every day life challenges when not doing yoga, I find myself better able to deal with things...It's very cool how it works.

You see yoga is really about the breath and being in the present moment. Also, it's about personal discovery and growth for some of us...I have learned to be o.k. with and even love myself for where I am at now (in yoga and in life)...kinda deep, huh? And, I have learned to appreciate my body for the marvel it is, even if I can't touch my toes because my hamstrings are so tight LOL.

In the classes I attend at my gym, we have people of all sizes and shapes and ages and everyone is very friendly and encouraging and supportive of each other. I think if you don't find this to be the case, you just have to find the right yoga class for you.

There are so many benefits to doing yoga and there are many styles of yoga...there's something for everyone. It's a great adjunct to cycling or any other activity (or even a stressful life)...I find that I can apply the principles of breath and focus to other aspects of my life, including my cycling. Plus on a physical level, I have much more flexibility and balance and coordination...great for cycling and mtn. biking.

Just thought I would add my thoughts...I say, you go girl!

Many blessings on your path,

Lisa