21/06/2026
Trigger warning: discussion of suicidal ideation.
I started practicing yoga around 15 years ago, but didn’t commit to a regular practice until around 10 years ago.
Back then, yoga was something I felt like I “should” be doing. Getting there was always the hardest part. Showing up. Sitting with myself. Feeling everything I was trying so hard not to feel.
I still remember my first class. I think I spent most of it lying in savasana. And honestly, sitting in a dysregulated body for an hour while contemplating su***de ain’t for the weak.
Yoga wasn’t something I enjoyed.
It wasn’t relaxing.
It wasn’t something I looked forward to.
It was work.
In many ways, it was the work.
When we moved from Wagga to Albury during a particularly difficult season of life, I found Ardor Albury | Yoga | Pilates | Meditation | Wellbeing Clinic
At times, it felt like the only constant I had when everything else felt chaotic.
Week after week, I showed up.
Over time, my relationship with yoga changed. What once felt impossible became something I couldn’t imagine living without.
Yoga has taught me how to come back to my body, connect with my breath, regulate my nervous system and create space between my thoughts and my reactions. Research consistently shows benefits for anxiety, depression, stress and overall wellbeing.
If yoga feels like something you “should” do but the resistance is strong, this is your reminder that it’s called a practice for a reason.
You don’t have to love it.
You just have to start.
Happy International Yoga Day 🤍
And to the incredible teachers who have held space for me over the years, thank you. Your impact has lasted far longer than you’ll ever know.
Valentina Londoño M
Melissa Rokay
Naturopath Albury & Online
J e n M o o r e
Ardor Albury | Yoga | Pilates | Meditation | Wellbeing Clinic
