Arriving as you are

After a recent one-to-one session, my student shared something that really struck me. She told me how much she loves private sessions—not just because of the personalised guidance, but because she doesn’t have to worry about what she’s wearing or whether she’s put on makeup.

At first, I was surprised. It had never crossed my mind that for some, the thought of stepping into a group yoga class might come with an unspoken pressure—choosing the right outfit, looking "presentable," or feeling self-conscious about appearance. But of course, it makes sense. We live in a world where presentation often feels like a prerequisite for participation.

And yet, yoga is meant to be the opposite of that.

Yoga is where we shed the layers—physically, mentally, emotionally. It’s not about looking a certain way; it’s about feeling. It’s about showing up as you—in your scruffiest clothes, bare-faced, messy-haired, or however you feel most yourself. Because the truth is, the moment you step onto your mat, none of that matters.

Your practice isn’t about the person next to you. It’s not about the friend you came with. It’s not about how you look in the mirror. It’s about you. Your breath. Your body. Your presence.

And in many ways, isn’t that the lesson for life as well?

Just as we show up to our practice as we are, we must show up to our lives the same way—without constantly measuring ourselves against external expectations. When we trust in the values and guiding principles that feel true to us, when we align with what we need rather than what we think we "should" be, we begin to live in a way that is freer, more honest, and more deeply fulfilling.

So if you ever hesitate before coming to class because of what you’re wearing, what your hair looks like, or how you might appear to others—let this be your reminder: none of that matters here. Show up exactly as you are. That’s enough. That’s more than enough.

And believe me, I get it.

Just this morning, I found myself in the exact same position. I had bought a new top for the gym—one that made me feel good, strong, and proud of the work I’ve put in. But as I stepped into the gym, I wasn’t so sure anymore. I carried a t-shirt with me, just in case. Not because of what others might think, but because of my own inner dialogue.

It’s funny, isn’t it? We can give the advice so easily—show up as you are, don’t overthink it, trust yourself—but when it’s our own moment of hesitation, it suddenly feels different.

But maybe that’s exactly the point.

Maybe self-acceptance isn’t something we achieve once and for all. Maybe it’s something we practice, moment by moment—just like yoga, just like life. Some days, we walk onto the mat (or into the gym) with confidence. Other days, we carry the metaphorical t-shirt, just in case. And that’s okay too.

The lesson remains the same: You are enough. In your scruffiest clothes, in your bravest outfit, in every single version of yourself. And the only voice you ever need permission from is your own.

Because yoga, like life, isn’t about looking the part. It’s about being in it. Fully. Authentically. You.