For thousands of years, yoga did not become the familiar practice it is today with its poses and flows. Much of yoga is not the postures itself, but instead the ancient teachings about meditation, contemplation, and the meaning of “union”(the definition of yoga).
Caitlin O’Flynn is a second-year majoring in biology at UC Davis. She started taking yoga classes in June. Since reentering the chaos of being back at college, going to a yoga class has been less attainable, leading her to search for new ways to practice off of her mat.
“I take some time to breathe whenever I feel stressed and I like to go on mindful walks during study breaks,” O’Flynn said. “I walk around a park near my apartment, the arboretum, or the farmers market.”
A stroll through a tunnel at the UC Davis Arboretum Teaching Nursery.
Appreciating the scenery in Downtown Davis.
Saturday morning farmers’ market stand with an abundance of seasonal goods.
O’Flynn has some tips when it comes to being mindful during busy college life.
“It’s good to be in nature and get some fresh air,” O’Flynn said. “It helps me to feel more focused and ready to study more. I also enjoy going to coffee shops to buy myself my favorite drink. It’s a way I can practice self-love and sipping a matcha latte is one of my favorite ways to be mindful.”
A matcha latte and cold brew about to be enjoyed at a local Davis coffee shop.
Trees and sky in the Davis Arboretum Teaching Nursery.
Thoughts can be a big distraction when it comes to practicing yoga, and O’Flynn explains her preferred method for managing over-thinking that may be a distraction in her daily life.
“I’ve been trying to journal at least once a week and I think it’s important to get my thoughts on the paper,” O’Flynn said. “This is an important time in my life that I’ll probably remember forever, and I always want to be reflecting on it.”
Caitlin O’Flynn, a second-year biology major at Davis journaling on a day off.
