(To Be Read In the Rhythm of “Green Eggs and Ham”.)

Hello there, Yogi!

Namaste.
Would you like to go to yoga today?

No thank you, I am very tired
I slept so poorly… was up late, wired.

Ah, I see, but don’t you know?
Yoga calms the senses, helps you let go.
It reduces anxiety and stress
Helps you quiet the mind and worry less.

Yes, I know… But not today,
I do not want to. Namaste.

Would you, could you, here at home?
No need to go out, just sit down and say “Om.”
Take a deep breath in, then let it out slow…
Pranayama helps you feel good, you know.

Yes, I know… But not today,
I just don’t feel like it. Namaste.

Outside! Perhaps some yoga outdoors?
Greet the sun and make the practice yours!

I do not want to practice yoga today!
I do not want to! Namaste!

How about with a friend? Quick, call one up!
You can strengthen and lengthen and partner up!

I do not want to call a friend.
I do not want to twist or bend.
I don’t want to practice yoga today!
I do not want to. Namaste.

I know! How about yoga on the beach?
Sand under your toes, as you stretch and reach!
Ocean breeze upon your cheeks,
As you work your core—those abs and obliques!

Are you not listening to what I say?
No yoga for me, not today.
Not on the beach, and not under the sun.
Not with a friend, not with anyone!
Not by myself at home on my mat
I just don’t want to, and that is that.

But yoga makes you feel so strong!
Heart is open and muscles long!
I know you’re tired, and grumpy too,
But yoga is the thing to do
To lift your spirit and your mood
You’ll have a better attitude!

Okay! Since you refuse to quit,
I guess I can practice… a little bit.
I will unroll my mat and see
What a little asana does for me…

Say! Breathing does help me relax!
I’ll just do a few more minutes, max.
These forward bends feel pretty good
They release my back, so I guess they should.

Maybe just one downward dog,
My head feels clear now, no more fog!
I’ll glide to plank and lower down
I’m really feeling better now!

Sun Salutations and Warrior Two
My blood is pumping and flowing through
My body strong, my mind is still
I’m feeling centered, zen and chill.

I’m so glad I practiced yoga today!
The light in me sees the light in you…
Namaste.

Relephant reads:

My Top 10(ish) Silly Excuses for Not Going to Yoga (Many of Which I’ve Used).

4 Reasons I Stopped Teaching Yoga.

4 Reasons We Don’t Need Fancy Yoga Poses.

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Editor: Catherine Monkman

{Photo: Courtesy of Recluse Photo}