My First Yoga Class: The Beginning of a Spiritual Path

I would like to share with you my experience of my first yoga class. This takes me back to 2002—and it completely changed my life. On my way home from university, I would pass by a yoga studio, each time telling myself that one day, I would try it. Something about it drew me in—perhaps the beautiful pastel rose brick exterior—but I wasn’t sure why. One day, I finally decided to step inside and give it a try.

I had never done yoga before. I had no expectations, no clear reason for being there, yet something within me was telling me I had to go. After the class, I needed time to process the experience. I gathered my things and left, but the effects lingered. It felt as if I had been transported to a hidden part of myself—a sanctuary where my thoughts had magically disappeared. For an hour and a half, I was completely disconnected from the outside world, and a deep sense of peace took over.

Weeks later, that feeling resurfaced—a soothing calmness I couldn’t quite explain. All I knew was that I wanted to experience that stillness again. So, I returned to the studio, signed up for a five-week introductory session, and never looked back. Yoga became a permanent part of my life.

Looking back, I realize that my first yoga class was the beginning of my spiritual journey—my first true encounter with myself. Until then, my focus had always been outward. I had never taken the time to connect with my inner self, to acknowledge my emotions, or truly listen to my own needs and wants. Yoga became the bridge to that connection, guiding me toward self-awareness, balance, and inner peace.

During that time, there was so much going on in my life. I was in school so; I was busy with exams and projects while working 2 jobs to pay for my tuition. I had an active social life; going out with friends, travelling and exercising. I was rarely ever home. I had way too much on my plate, leaving little room for rest and reflection. Though my life was fulfilling and I was happy, my schedule was packed, and my thoughts were scattered, constantly racing so, at the same time I felt trapped. I didn’t know how to escape from my overloaded schedule or all the noise in my mind.

I didn’t realize I was completely out of alignment. I lacked both clarity and structure. This caused me stress and insomnia, eventually burning me out—leaving me drained and completely depleted.

Yoga allowed me to discover an entirely new part of myself. That place is within all of us at all times because it is who we are. We are being of love; we are beings of light and we are beings of energy. That first class marked the beginning of a brand-new life, a fresh path. I completely changed direction, and yoga became the tool that helped me transform my life. I discovered a world within—one accessible to everyone, as it is our essence. When we turn inward, we unlock an endless field of possibilities for a life filled with peace, joy, and abundance.

Ever since I started practicing yoga, I have felt so much better. My mind and body are more balanced, and my migraines have almost disappeared. I’ve learned to tune in to myself, recognizing the signs when it’s time to slow down and step back from the chaos, moving in harmony with a rhythm that works for me. I feel peaceful, grounded, and aligned.

I never expected yoga to become my life. I was simply trying something new. But I’m so grateful I listened to that small voice inside because it led me here. If you are reading this, you are in the right place. I can guide you to connect with your inner being, just as I have. I have done the inner work, and that is my story. I can help you become more attuned to your inner voice. If you take the time to search within, you too will discover that magical space—a life of balance, joy, and abundance. Once you tap into that awareness, there is no going back to chaos, negativity, stress, or toxic environments. Everything begins to shift for the better. Yoga is now second nature to me—something I carry with me wherever I go.

with love,

~ Maria xo