Avocados And Yoga Have Something In Common

Avocados and yoga have something in common – I don’t get either of them. Yes, I am one of those weird people who, despite the incredulous looks from friends and acquaintances, just don’t get the appeal. I hear the gasps already. Let’s take avocados. I can’t get past the texture. Put it on toast, cut up in a salad, smashed into guacamole – doesn’t matter. I can’t get past the slick, slimy texture or the feel in my mouth. Oddly enough, I do like to use avocado oil. So, I always hope that will buy me some slack from my friends.

Photograph by Xavier Photographic Art

Let’s talk yoga. I have taken beginner classes (several times). I have a library of YouTube videos. I have yoga mats. I even took barre classes that seemed to be a blend of yoga, Pilates and aerobics. It just doesn’t work for me. I just can’t do the stillness of it or the Zen of it. Instead of clearing my mind while doing my downward dog, I am counting floor tiles. Instead of holding the “pose” in quiet reflection, I am wondering what everyone else is thinking about and how soon we can get on to the next move.

Photograph by Xavier Photographic Art

I understand the benefits of yoga but I have always been a body in motion and I still am even at 68. My Zen has always been found in movement not so much stillness. Both dance and karate gave me many of the same benefits as yoga – flexibility, muscle strength, better posture. I still incorporate aspects of both into my workouts. During my workouts and my power walks, I am introspective and mindful which are also qualities of yoga.

So not to worry. I may try it again – yoga, that is (avocado and I will never be friends).  Come on – there are others out there like me.  You may just not admit it.  I may not love the green fruit and I may not perfect the yoga positions but I get the benefits in my own way and I can still wish you “Namaste!”