The yoga philosophy is not unlike Yoda’s maxim of “Do, or do not. There is no try.”

Master Yoda

(And yes, if you’re really into the “Star Wars"-Eastern philosophy connection there are a bevy of books out there to read.)

The first step is taking a step and a deep breath.  Aside from being a good workout, the poses (or asanas) are part of an eight-limbed philosophy designed to still your mind from all the rapid zip-zapping of thoughts. When we slow things in our heads down, we can begin to see the world for what it is; and see the emotional attachments that color our objectivity.

But all that is a lot to think about as you’re trying to contort your body in an unfamiliar position or stand on one leg for a long time.

So don’t worry about it – just do.

I was reminded of this yesterday in a flow yoga class.

I was always the kid in grade school who fell off the balance beam before I got to the end. That hasn’t changed too much.

I usually tip over when doing balance poses – even simple ones.  I know I’m much weaker on my left side (where my bum knee is) and I know it’s going to be harder for me. I try to calm myself but I often have a freak-out moment.

My yoga teacher, Laraine, has told us to do a pose until we fall out – it helps us find our edge and work toward being comfortable in something that we’re not.  And sometimes a little help reminds us that something we thought was uncomfortable feels good.

We did our half-moon poses against the wall. I –you guessed it—usually tip over in this one. I glanced around the room that looked like it could’ve been a Keith Haring painting with playful and energetic bodies dotting the wall. As I saw myself in the mirror as part of the picture I realized I was having fun.

Half-Moon, karmakidsyoga.com / “Ohne Titel” By Keith Haring

Give it a go!

On Sunday, Palm Yoga has an open house with classes from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Other local studios such as Namaste, The Lotus Room and Yogani have scheduled classes too. Or you can find some poses from Yoga Journal.