My husband’s been dragging me to yoga 

Certain things we do in class make me say, “ooh” and “uhh”

Years of running and lifting add up 

I feel my muscles sifting 

Certain things don’t go in certain planes 

I hope no one’s looking to see my face of pain 

I used to judge yogis

But now I know there’s no room for joking

The instructor always says in the beginning to set an intention 

Just lying there is a lot and my thoughts starts driftin’

I think she can read my mind because she says to silence the doubts – and the donuts – and the negative self-talk 

So I drift to mint chocolate chip and somehow I conjure up the idea that I’m strong 

And I remind myself that God reigns and that He’s been on the throne all along

The instructor says to breathe 

I know for sure she’s talking to me 

My eyes never close 

Because the world might cave if they do 

She brings me back to my intention 

As my hamstrings feel an unusual tension

And then I can close my eyes 

Some time later I’m awakened by a gentle nudge

I’m on my back 

Everyone has left 

No room for judgment (what I was afraid of)

I was looser than ever 

And I heard a voice – from somewhere – say, “You don’t know how much you’re loved”

I feel a lot better

I remembered my intention 

Let go of superstition 

Breathed 

And headed next door for some ice cream