Ah, Chinese New Year. The kuih kapit, bak kwa, pineapple tarts, yee sang… wah, shiok hor?
But now, it’s February, and the post-CNY reality has hit: the jeans are tight, the energy is low, and the yoga mat looks at you like an old friend you’ve been ghosting.
Let’s face it – restarting your yoga practice after a holiday of feasting, late nights, and endless relatives saying, “Eh, you put on weight ah?” feels sooo susah. It’s like convincing yourself to tapao salad when your brain says, “Just eat more bak kwa lah!”
But here’s the thing: getting back into yoga isn’t about punishment (we’re not here to burn off the bak kwa calories). It’s about reconnecting with yourself after all the heng ong huat. Sure, your body feels heavier, stiffer, and maybe your mind is saying, “Aiyo, can’t even touch toes anymore.”
But that’s exactly why you need to show up – because yoga isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up for you.
Step 1: Prioritize.
If you keep thinking, “Wah, busy lah – so many things to settle post-CNY,” let me ask you this: busy until cannot spare one hour, ke? If you can queue for your favourite food, pastries or Chagee tea, scroll XHS, or argue with your aunties about which pineapple tart is best, you can make time for yoga.
Step 2: Make the Effort.
Wah, effort. Scary word, hor? But nothing worth having comes easy. Remember all those ang pao blessings you got during CNY? Don’t waste them by neglecting your health. Come to class, and you’ll feel the difference. Your body will say, “Eh, not bad, thank you ah!”
Step 3: Focus on What Matters.
Does it matter if you can’t do a headstand right now? Tak penting wei (well.. for now). What matters is moving your body, calming your mind, and feeling good. Whether you sweat buckets or just stretch like a lazy cat, every little bit helps.
Pro Tip: Don’t Think, Just Go.
Sometimes, the hardest part is stepping out of the house. So don’t overthink it. Book the class, pack your bag, and show up. Once you’re in the studio, the magic happens. You’ll leave lighter, happier, and maybe even thinking, “Why didn’t I start sooner?”
So, to all my post-CNY kawans, don’t let the pineapple tarts win. Prioritize your health, make the effort, and show up for yourself. The mat is waiting, jio your kaki and come back to practice. You’ll thank yourself later – and your jeans will, too. 😉
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