The rise and fall of my morning exercise routine
For a few solid months, I was really into yoga. I would wake up most days at 6:15, pull on leggings and a t-shirt, and then walk the 2 minutes to my local studio. The practice was an hour, and left me with a spring in my step to kick off the rest of my morning routine, which usually included making breakfast, packing lunch, and journaling briefly. I could visibly see the effects within weeks as I got stronger and more flexible, and felt more in-tune with my body. I was so enamored by it that I traveled to Cambodia with my yoga mat, and researched local studios.
Then I arrived, and stopped. I did yoga a few times in my room, but never once visited a studio, even though I prefer to practice in good company. My mat has been left rolled up in a corner for a couple of weeks now.
![namastay in bed.png](https://steemitimages.com/DQmeveUioGJY5HV35RPBd3scsYTU2UBA5a2psRbJqgj5sRc/namastay%20in%20bed.png)
What the hell happened?
It's amazing how important it is to remove as many barriers to exercise as possible. In the US, my exercise clothes were simple and all in a bin. I just had to get up, put them on, and walk. I paid for a 3 month unlimited pass, and never thought about payment again. I usually got their early, so I could relax a little more on the mat before having to get started.
Now, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, walking anywhere is at best a nuisance as drivers shout "tuk tuk" at me, or at its worst a hazard as I dodge a lot of reckless driving and poisonous exhaust. The studios are far enough as to be a tad prohibitive.
Moreover, studios here tend not to do unlimited, so I feel annoyed at having to set aside money for every class. Lastly, I didn't pack enough exercise clothing.
GAH. Excuses, excuses! But it matters when my motivation is compromised. Frankly, it was never about yoga, but my ability to create a seamless routine. As I deal with weight gain due to the sudden lack of movement and change in diet, I want to get back on track, but it may not be through yoga. In another post, I will discuss my Crossfit in Cambodia experience!