Working Out and Not Feeling Well?

If done properly with attention to alignment you should not be sore all over almost every day from your yoga practice. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali state "Yoga is the ceasing of the mind fluctuations" or calming the "monkey mind". This comes as a result of the asanas or physical poses when done mindfully and with great attention to cause and effect. Your yoga practice should be observed by a teacher of yoga so that they can tell you what you are doing to cause the soreness. Even if you can attend just one class - I realize that being a Mom doesn't always allow for time for yourself, but in this case I strongly encourage you to seek out a certified teacher.

You can always use a calm CD-one you like so you can "get into it" and yes it does help relieve anxiety--you have to pay attention to what you are doing--remember what the original dvd said and work from there. Simple stretching can help with your aches and pains--you should do this before and after you excerise. Now reach for the sky--gently and back down to the floor---there you are going!

I am a big fan of yoga and DVD yoga as well. I don't know if the poster below didn't notice that you've been sore since you stopped doing the yoga. My experience is that my body got used to the stretches and felt rather stiff for a while after stopping the yoga.

Maybe you could try stretching in front of a mirror to see if that will relieve some tension and soreness? If you have any way to get instant-play movies (like Netflix over the x-box or Wii or Blockboster movies), they have workout shows on demand that might help, as does extended cable, usually. You could also check Youtube for yoga pose ideas and just take it easy back into them and make sure you focus on breathing.

I find yoga both energizing and relaxing, when I can find the time to do it!
Best of luck!